IPL for Melasma on Forearms

I had an IPL treatment done on my forearms on Oct 1st to help with melasma splotches. This was my first treatment I've done on my arms. I've had two IPL treatments done on my face by the same provider and had no issues.

The forearm treatment hurt a lot worse during the treatment and had intense burning for about two hours after the treatment.

The settings were obviously way too high for my arms. I am 8 days out and while showing some "improvements" it is becoming very apparent I will have some long-term damage I will need to try and correct down the road.

I went to a dermatologist for the burns and they think I will be left with some scarring and hyperpigmentation issues as well. It really is devastating.

I'm combing through these threads hoping to see some success stories to give me hope!