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Treatment of melasma and the use of intense pulsed light: a review

Lisa Zaleski1, Sabrina Fabi, Mitchel P Goldman

  • 1Department of Dermatology, US Naval Medical Center Okinawa, Okinawa, Japan. lisa.zaleski@med.navy.mil

Journal of Drugs in Dermatology : JDD
|November 9, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy combined with a hydroquinone skincare system effectively treated persistent facial melasma, improving both pigmentation and vascularity in five patients.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Aesthetic Medicine

Background:

  • Melasma is a complex skin condition characterized by increased pigmentation and vascularity.
  • Current topical treatments offer temporary improvement, primarily targeting epidermal melasma components.

Observation:

  • A cohort of five patients with persistent facial melasma was treated.
  • The treatment regimen combined Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy with a hydroquinone-based skincare system (Obagi Nu-Derm).

Findings:

  • The combined IPL and hydroquinone treatment demonstrated significant improvement in melasma.
  • Both the hyperpigmentation and associated vascularity components of melasma were positively affected.
  • Observed outcomes suggest a comprehensive approach to melasma management.

Implications:

  • IPL therapy, targeting both pigment and vasculature, offers a promising therapeutic option for melasma.
  • Combination therapy may provide more sustained and effective melasma treatment than topical agents alone.
  • Further research into IPL and combination therapies is warranted for optimizing melasma management strategies.

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