Melasma and redness combination: What do you recommend?

Question

I have both melasma and very red, rosacea-type skin. I have heard two different treatment recommendations: 1) Tri-Luma cream followed by Pico laser OR 2) Tranexamic Acid pills followed by Vbeam.

William Groff, DO · Answer

Vbeam is an excellent laser for treating rosacea symptoms, since it targets the skin redness without damaging surrounding skin and tissue. However, there are better lasers for melasma that target the melanin in the skin that leads to this condition. It is likely you will need a combination approach to treat both of these concerns effectively. I recommend scheduling an in-person assessment with a board-certified dermatologist with expertise in both these conditions and a vast range of laser devices to choose from. Through a comprehensive examination and discussion of your goals, your doctor can create a customized treatment plan to meet your need best.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

In our office, we have several treatments that can help improve common vascular skin issues, including rosacea, post-inflammatory erythema, red scars, facial blushing, and spider veins. The Vbeam laser continues to be the gold standard for redness, including rosacea and post-inflammatory erythema. In some cases, we add Venus Viva RF coagulation to help improve redness on the skin from spider veins, inflammation, and rosacea. 
  
Generally, several sessions are required to improve redness on the skin. Vbeam laser, IPL Limelight, and Venus Viva all work very well with minimal downtime. 
  
Patients with rosacea may benefit from topical creams to help soothe inflamed skin. We recommend Elevase Moisture Booster. For Post-inflammatory erythema, Plato’s Scar Serum is recommended twice daily. 
  
Best, 
  
Dr. Karamanoukian
  
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Melasma needs a combination approach to get the best improvement and will need a series of treatments. In our practice, we combine Clear + brilliant, peels, microneedling/PRP, aerolase, and sometimes erbium laser (cool laser) to get the best results. See an expert for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Melasma and redness combination: What do you recommend?

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Melasma and redness combination: What do you recommend?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Vbeam

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