Lasers for Brown Spots and Melasma?

Brown spots on the face and melasma I'm Hispanic and have hormonal brown spots it looks like I have a mask on my face. Will laser treaments work for me?

I’m so glad you asked about this now since this is the worst time of year for everyone for these hormonal brown blotches (melasma).    A Fraxel laser (the original one, not the carbon dioxide) might help you but you should do it in the winter, and make sure you go to an expert laser center.  Usually the Fraxel will help, but occasionally it can make it worse.

Also, here are other tips for improving this in the meantime:   1)  If you’re on birth control, see your doctor and find another method, like an IUD.  It’s almost impossible to improve melasma while still on birth control pills or if you’re pregnant ; 2) Get a sunscreen with either mexoryl 3% or zinc 10-20% and use it every morning. These block UVA and it’s UVA that activates melasma the most; 3)  Get a wide brimmed hat and wear it all the time when outdoors, it keeps the light off your face 4) See your doctor and get a prescription for Triluma or the generic hydroquinone 4% and use it every morning under your sunscreen now until October.  5) In the fall, have your doctor recommend somewhere near you where you can safely have some light face peels.  They will help if done correctly.   All my best to you!  Brandith

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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