Microneedling with PRP good for melasma on indian patient?

At my practice we offer retinol peels, a possible safe, alternative option for you, based on your skin type. We have seen incredible results with reduction of melasma and other hyperpigmentation, particularly in our patients with darker complexions. This medium depth peel is painless with virtually no downtime aside from 3-4 days of peeling skin. Melasma can be difficult to treat, particularly when the patient is darker complected but there are certainly options available that will work for you.

Though reported to help in certain cases of melasma, it can worsen other cases, especially if a tyrosinase inhibitor is not used with this treatment. 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