Post microblading, is there a safe product I can use to treat melasma (that won't fade the pigment in my brows?)

Question

I've had microblading done and I love it, but I also have melasma (dark spots) on my forehead and cheeks. I've read that retinol works great for reducing melasma, but would could potentially fade the pigment in my brows. Any other product that would be great for melasma (hydroquinone maybe?) that would take care of the melasma without undoing my microblading? Would spot-treating the dark spots work (without applying the cream to my entire face)?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

cosmelan or enlighten with proper skincare can help.

this is post inflammatory hyperpigmentation/melasma/discoloration that needs cosmelan or enlighten peels at home which we can do virtually and send to your home along with aerify peels regularly, vivatia foam, restorsea 10x, faith essence serum, and cosmelan 2 cream.

Hyperpigmentation from any type needs a combination approach of peels like cosmelan, enlighten and aerify,  lasers like clear and brilliant and aerolase or laser genesis, radiofrequency like venus viva, and constant skin care and sun protection.  Bimonthly facials with silk peel dermalinfusion is essential to hydrate, exfoliate and infuse vitamins and antioxidants into the skin.  If you have acne you can do additional treatments and peels to get more improvement.  I suggest a formal consultation with an expert in lasers and peels. Best, Dr. Emer.

David E. Berman, MD (retired) · Answer

the picosure laser is the best way to treat melasma. you should avoid having the laser go over your eyebrows which is easy to avoid. you should plan 3 sessions, each spaced a month apart. you are not too far from my office if you want to book a consult. This is a great time of year to do the Picosure laser since you cannot do the treatment if you are tanned. 
also the Picosure does not cause the redness and peeling that most other lasers cause. it will also help with fine lines on the face.

sincerely
david berman md

Post microblading, is there a safe product I can use to treat melasma (that won't fade the pigment in my brows?)

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Post microblading, is there a safe product I can use to treat melasma (that won't fade the pigment in my brows?)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

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