Clinical Case of Melasma Treatment with IPL

Clinical Case

• Patient's age: 36 years old
• Problem: Melasma
• Treatment: Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
• Results: Before and after photographs of two IPL sessions

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What is Melasma?

Melasma is a skin condition characterized by the appearance of dark patches on the face. It can also appear on other areas of the body.

This pathology is secondary to the excessive production of melanin by melanocytes and culminates in the appearance of spots on the skin.

What are the Causes of Melasma?

There is no main reason for the appearance of melasma.

It is believed that in most cases there is a strong genetic predisposition as well as the association of some external factors, such as:

Hormonal changes predispose the development of these hyperpigmentations, which is why melasma is more common in women. It's also often known as pregnancy scarring, as it appears during pregnancy.

Once installed, it will be very difficult for it to regress spontaneously.

Dermatological Treatment for Melasma

The patient in question had already consulted several doctors, aesthetic medicine and alternative medicine, having tried other types of treatments, such as peels and local depigmenting creams.

Therefore, it was decided to treat facial melasma with IPL (intense pulsed light), since the wavelength of 500-600 nanometers also has an effect on the pigment.

What is the IPL procedure for treating Melasma?

A conductive gel is applied to the face, and then the laser is applied to the affected areas. The treatment lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

Patients feel only a slight warmth and stinging sensation, but no anesthesia is required.

Immediately after the procedure, slight erythema may be noted. In the following days, it's normal for the spots to darken, but this is a sign that the treatment was effective.

Afterwards, the spots begin to gradually disappear and after a few months a considerable improvement is noticeable.

How to Prevent Melasma?

The best way to avoid developing this dermatological condition is to use sun protection every day, even on cloudy days.

On brighter days, extra care should be taken and it is recommended:

• Avoid sun exposure as much as possible
• Apply sunscreen several times a day
• Wear a hat
• Wear sunglasses

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