Which chemical peel is best or how many sessions needed to fade melasma completely? (Photos)

Question

Hii im 25 year's old indian female . Around 2 year's back i had melasma on my cheek my dermatologist gave me hydroquinone 2% it worked good but melasma came back again but now its on my both cheek & on nose also i went to dermatologist in ohio and she gave me azealic acid15 % and tretnoin cream after almost 3 months of using them i can still see brown patches on my face and its very disturbing.which peel helps to fade melasma completely.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Melasma is thought to be hormonally related skin hyper pigmentation.  It is deep in the dermis.  This puts it out of reach for most treatments.  Complicating the matter, treatments intended to improve melasma can actually make it worse.  The benefit of the bleaching creams is generally also disappointing. Protecting the face from the sun can help and I presume your dermatologist as discussed this with you.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

I have found that Cosmelan is the best way to treat facial melasma.  The kit consists of high potency hydroquinone and Retin-A coupled with two in office chemical peels.  Future strict sun avoidance is always important to prevent recurrence.  Please consult an expert in Cosmelan.  Best, Dr. Green

Kevin S. Pinski, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

I prefer trichloroacetic acid (TCA) chemical peels for this purpose. We also sometimes rotate the peels with our Permea Laser that targets the melanin in the skin and will help to even out skin tone. Melasma is a very stubborn condition that takes time to correct and maintenance. Topical lighteners and sun protection should still be used daily.

Which chemical peel is best or how many sessions needed to fade melasma completely? (Photos)

Answers (3)