Can I use Tri-luma when getting Picosure treatment for pigmentation?

Question

I have been having Picosure treatment on my face for 10 months now and my melisma doesn’t improve. So my dermatologist told me to use tri-luma. If I decide to keep getting Picosure. How many days apart do I need to stop using tri-Luma before I get Picosure treatment. Can I use tri-luma while I get the Picosure treatment. Would it help to get ride of my melisma faster or would it make worse. Please advise. By the way I am an Asian (skin tone).

Emil A. Tanghetti, MD · Answer

Tri-luma is a great adjunct therapy when used in combination with the PicoSure to treat melasma, so I would anticipate that you will start to see results quicker than with PicoSure treatment alone. Melasma can be very difficult to treat and I find that combining therapies in this way produces better results for my patients. Given that we utilize lower energy settings with the PicoSure when treating melasma, I typically recommend that my patients utilize their Tri-luma right up to treatment day with the Pico and can resume their Tri-luma about 24 hours later. Of course I would recommend seeking the advice of your treating provider, but in general this is what we recommend for our patients. Another important piece of treating melasma that you didn't mention is sunscreen. Consistent sunscreen use and sun avoidance is critical in controlling melasma. Make sure you are using an SPF of at least 30 everyday and reapplying if you are out for extended periods of time.

Maha S. Shakir, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question. Using Tri-Luma which is a cream combination of Hydroquinone/Tretinoin/corticosteroid. When applying it to the face will help stabilize the melanocyte in your skin and lighten the skin by inhibiting melanin synthesis. Melasma is a skin disease when the melanocyte which are stimulated by the estrogen and progesterone start producing more melanin when exposed to the UV radiation of the sun. So this is for sure will help. It advised to stop using the cream 3 days before and after Picosure session. 
Wish you the best in health,
LOVA - Lake Oswego Vein and Aesthetic
Board certified by American College of Surgeon

Can I use Tri-luma when getting Picosure treatment for pigmentation?

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Can I use Tri-luma when getting Picosure treatment for pigmentation?

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Everything you need to know about PicoSure

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.