I have melasma. I was thinking of getting ultra fractional laser to rid of my hyperpigmentation. Is it a good idea to use 4% hydroquinone two weeks before my treatment? Please advise also the best type of laser treatment for this.
October 25, 2018
Answer: PicoSure for Melasma Hello and thank you for your question. In our practice we have had some patients see excellent results with PicoSure treatments for melasma. You usually want to think initially terms of a series of treatments spaced about 4 weeks apart, and then maintenance treatments once every 6-12 months after that. With that being said, everyone is different and not all patients respond to melasma treatment in the same way. Melasma can be a challenge to treat and in some cases, heat can make it worse.. For that reason, after a proper consultation where we discuss the procedure, treatment goals, realistic expectations, etc., we usually do a small test spot to start so that the patient can see the process and results that can likely be expected. Our patients have been very satisfied with the opportunity to "preview" what the likely outcome will be by going through the test spot process. We recommend a skincare routine that uses SkinCeuticals products and have a few that we recommend specifically for Melasma patients and have seen some great results with. All the best to you!
Helpful
October 25, 2018
Answer: PicoSure for Melasma Hello and thank you for your question. In our practice we have had some patients see excellent results with PicoSure treatments for melasma. You usually want to think initially terms of a series of treatments spaced about 4 weeks apart, and then maintenance treatments once every 6-12 months after that. With that being said, everyone is different and not all patients respond to melasma treatment in the same way. Melasma can be a challenge to treat and in some cases, heat can make it worse.. For that reason, after a proper consultation where we discuss the procedure, treatment goals, realistic expectations, etc., we usually do a small test spot to start so that the patient can see the process and results that can likely be expected. Our patients have been very satisfied with the opportunity to "preview" what the likely outcome will be by going through the test spot process. We recommend a skincare routine that uses SkinCeuticals products and have a few that we recommend specifically for Melasma patients and have seen some great results with. All the best to you!
Helpful
October 24, 2018
Answer: Melasma Treatment Options Thank you for your question. Melasma is very difficult to treat and heat often makes it worse. Start by looking for prescription strength 4% Hydroquinone (HQ). Do not buy it over the counter or off the internet. Laws vary by state. In Texas, physicians can prescribe and dispense in office. We have been very successful using the PicoSure laser with the FOCUS and / or Flat Lenses eliminating hyperpigmentation with a series of treatments. Our protocol is a series of very low pulse count combined with using our chiller unit blowing cold air. FOCUS lens treatments have the extra benefit of reducing fine lines, wrinkles and scars. This is one of our go to treatments for patients older than 40 and worried about the signs of aging. The PicoSure laser is SAFE for ALL SKIN TYPES. Start with sunscreen every day! Once you have treated your hyperpigmentation to your satisfaction, you will probably need a follow treatment every 6 to 12 months depending your level of re-pigmentation. Best of luck.
Helpful
October 24, 2018
Answer: Melasma Treatment Options Thank you for your question. Melasma is very difficult to treat and heat often makes it worse. Start by looking for prescription strength 4% Hydroquinone (HQ). Do not buy it over the counter or off the internet. Laws vary by state. In Texas, physicians can prescribe and dispense in office. We have been very successful using the PicoSure laser with the FOCUS and / or Flat Lenses eliminating hyperpigmentation with a series of treatments. Our protocol is a series of very low pulse count combined with using our chiller unit blowing cold air. FOCUS lens treatments have the extra benefit of reducing fine lines, wrinkles and scars. This is one of our go to treatments for patients older than 40 and worried about the signs of aging. The PicoSure laser is SAFE for ALL SKIN TYPES. Start with sunscreen every day! Once you have treated your hyperpigmentation to your satisfaction, you will probably need a follow treatment every 6 to 12 months depending your level of re-pigmentation. Best of luck.
Helpful