Will laser treatment get rid of Melasma?

I have had a increasing brownish mark/line above my lip which a dermatologist prescribed Triluma.  The Triluma made my upperskin portion above the lip so dry.  Really was not working so I had stopped.  The cream was expensive and not covered by health insurance either.  I was told that going in for a laser treatment(fall time) would take care of the melasma discoloration.  Will laser work?  I am desperate!

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

'Laser treatment for melasma - A Wood's lamp test should be used to determine whether the melasma is epidermal or dermal. If the melasma is dermal, laser (or "IPL") will acually DARKEN and worsen the appearance of the spots. Dermal melasma is generally unresponsive to most treaments, and has only been found to lighten with products containing mandelic acid.

In all treatments for melasma the effects are gradual and a strict avoidance of sunlight is required. The use of broad-spectrum sunscreens with physical blockers, such as titanium dioxide and zinc dioxide is preferred over that with only chemical blockers. This is because UV-A, UV-B and visible lights are all capable of stimulating pigment production.'

You should consult your doctor about this and whether laser treatment would help in your case.

The other options available are -
'Topical depigmenting agents, such as hydroquinone (HQ) either in over-the-counter (2%) or prescription (4%) strength. HQ is a chemical that inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in the production of melanin.

Tretinoin, an acid that increases skin cell (keratinocyte) turnover. This treatment cannot be used during pregnancy.

Azelaic acid (20%), thought to decrease the activity of melanocytes.

Facial peel with alpha hydroxyacids or chemical peels with glycolic acid.'

You could read more about this at the following links -

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melasma

and

http://www.emedicine.com/DERM/topic260.htm

Let us know if you need any further information.

Regards.

[onecrazylady]

Thank you for responding to my question.  I just printed out your information and I am going to use your information!

Thanks Again!

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Glad the post was of help to you.

Do keep us updated and post us if you have any doubts.

Regards.