Does ProFractional laser help with Melasma?

Question

I've tried a series of the Clear & Brilliant laser treatments and it did not help with my melasma. I wear a heavy SPF everyday and am desperately looking for something to help. Thank you!

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.The profractional laser works well for fine lines and wrinkles, but does not do anything for pigmentation changes.

Robert G. Aycock, MD, FACS · Answer

Profractional is a laser recommended for textures issues like fine wrinkles or acne scarring. Melasma is very difficult to treat. You can start with topical skin brightening creams and then progressive towards chemical peels and lasers.

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for
your question rach2000. The Pro
Fractional laser can address multiple concerns such as color and textural
irregularities. Melasma is a common condition characterized by the appearance of dark patches on the skin. It is caused by an imbalance of hormones in the body that causes the skin to produce more pigment. This pigment can be deposited in different layers of the skin. When it is in the surface layers topical products and IPL treatments or chemical peels can help. When the pigment is deeper in the skin fractional laser treatment can help. For my patients I apply topical liquid hydroquinone immediately after the treatment for better results. Please
consult with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

Yes - erbium fractional laser can help with melsama, but more gentle treatments are advisable. Melasma can not be completely cured, however effective treatment are possible. This is because your skin is extremely sensitive to UV and even the smallest amount can stimulate your pigment cells to produce colour. The mainstay of treatment is strict UV protection- hats, sunglasses and SPF every 4 hours.
I prefer to use a combination of creams and laser for melasma. Hydroquinone can be used (5-8%), along with vitamin A creams. I usually start my patients on laser (low dose Q switch or Picosure) a few weeks after they commence on creams. Another laser I use is the Clear and Brilliant in the Permea setting combined with creams. 
  
In some cases I combine glycolic AHA peels, and in other cases I use a tablet called Tranexamic acid to help. Melasma treatments should be tailored to each patient. 
  
All the best, Dr Davin Lim. Laser, surgical and aesthetic dermatologist. Brisbane, Australia

Does ProFractional laser help with Melasma?

Answers (4)

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