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Melasma
Melasma shows up as brown or gray-brown patches on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip. Hormones, sun and genetics all play a part, and heat can make it worse. We use the Aerolase Neo because its very short pulse keeps heat low.
Usually 4 to 8 sessions, all skin types, little to no downtime. Photos courtesy of Aerolase. Results vary.
How it works
Each session takes 20 to 30 minutes. The laser never touches your skin, so there is no gel and most people don’t need numbing. Most people go straight back to their day.
Sessions are spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart. Many people notice more even tone within two or three sessions, and it keeps improving after the series ends.
Melasma can come back, so daily sunscreen, often a tinted mineral one, and occasional touch-ups are part of the plan.
Questions
Will melasma come back?
It can, especially with sun, hormonal changes or some medications. We plan for that with sunscreen and touch-up sessions.
Can I be treated while pregnant?
No. We don’t treat melasma with laser during pregnancy or while nursing. Gentle skincare and sun protection are the best approach until your doctor clears you.
Can I keep using my prescription skincare?
Usually, yes. Some pigment creams and retinoids need timing adjustments, and your provider will guide you.
Is it safe for darker skin?
The Aerolase Neo is FDA-cleared for all skin types, I to VI. Its very short pulse is designed to limit heat, which is a concern with some other lasers. Your provider will go over anything specific to your skin at the consultation.
More results: Hyperpigmentation Age Spots Sun Damage Pigmented Spots
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Important information. Individual results vary.
Photographs shown are of actual patients who have provided written authorization for the use of their images. Results depicted are individual outcomes and are not a guarantee or prediction of any particular result for any other person. Clinical outcomes depend on a number of factors including skin condition, treatment adherence, individual response, hormonal and lifestyle factors, and ongoing sun protection. Melasma is a chronic condition that can recur. No treatment is risk-free; the potential benefits, side effects, and any treatment-specific risks will be reviewed with you in detail during your complimentary consultation.
Skin R&R treatments are performed by licensed providers operating under appropriate medical supervision. Provider credentials are available on request and at each location. The Aerolase Neo® is an FDA-cleared 650-microsecond 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser; cleared indications relevant to this page include the treatment of benign pigmented lesions on Fitzpatrick skin types I-VI. Any discussion of use beyond cleared indications will occur during your consultation. Some patients pictured may have received complimentary or reduced-cost treatment in exchange for the use of their photographs.
Photos courtesy of Aerolase® where indicated and used with permission. © Skin R&R. Not medical advice. For medical concerns, consult a qualified provider.