— Gallery / Pigmentation / Melasma

Even the tone. Restore the light.

Melasma is layered — hormones, sun, genetics, skin response. Our approach is patient and protective: gentle, contactless laser sessions paired with daily sun defense, sequenced to fade what shows on the surface while respecting the skin underneath.

4–8Typical Sessions
AllSkin Tones I–VI
Min.Typical Downtime

Photos courtesy of Aerolase® — individual results vary.

— Our Approach

A lighter touch, by design.

Melasma is sensitive to heat and friction. Many traditional treatments can worsen it — especially in melanin-rich skin. Aerolase Neo works differently.

— The Technology

650 microseconds of precision.

The Aerolase Neo's 650-microsecond pulse is shorter than the skin's thermal relaxation time. Energy targets pigment quickly, then exits — reducing the bulk heating that can trigger flares or post-inflammatory darkening.

It's contactless. There's no cooling gel, no anesthetic, and no contact with the skin's surface — three details that matter especially when treating a condition that's easily provoked.

— What It May Help

Pigment, gently addressed.

  • May reduce the appearance of melasma patches across the face
  • Supports more even tone in cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin
  • FDA-cleared for benign pigmented lesions on Fitzpatrick skin types I–VI
  • Lower thermal trauma profile than many alternative pigment treatments
  • Pairs well with prescription topicals and a daily sun protection routine
  • No contact, no cooling gel, no anesthetic required

— Recommended Treatments

Built around your plan.

Melasma care works best as a system: in-office laser sessions, supportive topicals, and daily sun defense. Your esthetician will customize the right combination at your consultation.

— Primary

Aerolase Neo Laser.

The 650-microsecond Nd:YAG laser, FDA-cleared for benign pigmented lesions on all Fitzpatrick skin types. The short pulse targets melanin while limiting the heat that can otherwise trigger melasma to flare.

Learn about Aerolase

— Adjunctive

Targeted topicals.

PCA Skin and EltaMD regimens with tyrosinase-inhibiting actives that support what the laser begins. Customized to your skin type, tolerance, and any prescription medications you may already be using.

Learn about PCA Peels

— Maintenance

Sun defense + facials.

Melasma is sun-sensitive for life. Daily broad-spectrum SPF, mineral options where appropriate, and monthly maintenance facials help hold the result you've worked for — and catch any return early.

Learn about Facials

— What to Expect

A clear path.

Melasma takes patience. Here's exactly what your journey looks like — from your first conversation through your maintenance plan.

01

— Consultation

Free assessment.

Your esthetician reviews your skin, history, medications, and goals. You'll leave with a treatment plan, an honest timeline, and clear pricing — no pressure.

02

— Treatment

In-office sessions.

Each Aerolase session typically runs 20–30 minutes. The treatment is contactless and most clients return to their day right after, with little to no downtime.

03

— Series

Four to eight visits.

Sessions are spaced 2–4 weeks apart. Many clients see progressive lightening across the series, with continued evening of tone for weeks after the final visit.

04

— Maintenance

Stay protected.

Daily SPF, a tailored homecare routine, and periodic touch-up sessions help maintain your result. Melasma can return — we'll plan for that together.

— Common Questions

Good questions. Simple answers.

If you don't see your question here, our team is happy to answer it during your free consultation.

Is the treatment safe for darker skin tones?
The Aerolase Neo is FDA-cleared for use on all Fitzpatrick skin types (I–VI), including melanin-rich skin. Its short 650-microsecond pulse is designed to minimize the heat-related side effects that can be a concern with some traditional pigment treatments. Any treatment risks specific to your skin will be reviewed during your complimentary consultation.
Will melasma come back?
Melasma is a chronic, multifactorial condition that can recur — particularly with sun exposure, hormonal changes, or certain medications. We design your plan with that in mind, including a daily SPF routine and periodic touch-up sessions to help maintain your results. Long-term outcomes vary by individual and are discussed during your consultation.
Can I be treated during pregnancy?
As a general practice we do not perform laser melasma treatments during pregnancy or while nursing. Hormonal melasma during these periods often responds best to gentle topicals and consistent sun protection. Once you're cleared by your physician post-pregnancy or post-nursing, we're happy to discuss a treatment plan.
Does the treatment hurt?
Most clients describe the sensation as a series of brief, warm pulses. The treatment is contactless and doesn't typically require numbing, though sensitivity varies. If you have particularly sensitive skin, let your provider know during the consultation and they'll adjust the protocol.
Can I keep using my prescription skincare?
In most cases yes, and we'll coordinate with your prescriber if needed. Some prescription pigment medications and retinoids may require timing adjustments around your sessions — your esthetician will give you specific guidance based on what you're using.
When will I see results?
Pigment fades gradually. Many clients notice initial evening of tone within the first two to three sessions, with continued improvement across the full series and for several weeks after the final visit. Individual response varies — your consultation will set realistic expectations for your skin.
How important is daily sun protection?
Essential. UV exposure is one of the primary triggers for melasma, and unprotected sun can undo months of treatment progress. We'll recommend a daily broad-spectrum SPF (often tinted or mineral) and walk you through application habits during your consultation.

Ready when you are.

Book your free consultation — we'll match the right treatment plan to your skin, your goals, and your timeline. No deposit. No commitment.

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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.