Aerolase for melasma: benefits, limits, and aftercare

Aerolase is a brand of laser platform rather than a single universal melasma protocol. The device delivers light energy that can target pigment, while the chosen wavelength, fluence, pulse characteristics, and treatment spacing influence both response and risk. An experienced clinician should confirm the diagnosis before treatment.

Melasma presents with symmetrical brown or grey-brown patches, commonly on sun-exposed facial skin. Sunlight, visible light, heat, hormonal influences, and skin irritation can sustain pigment activity. A laser can address existing colour, but it does not remove these triggers or stop pigment-producing cells from becoming active again.

Laser treatment is therefore often considered alongside daily light protection and suitable topical care. It is not interchangeable with every procedure described as laser toning. People with deeper skin tones or a history of dark marks after inflammation need particularly thoughtful parameter selection because excess heat or irritation can deepen pigmentation.

Choose a licensed clinician who regularly treats melasma across a range of skin tones. Share pregnancy status, medicines, active skin conditions, cold-sore history, recent tanning, previous pigment reactions, and all lightening products. Ask which Aerolase device and settings are proposed, whether a test area is sensible, and what outcome would count as worthwhile improvement.

Before treatment, avoid deliberate tanning and follow instructions about irritating retinoids, acids, or scrubs. Afterwards, use gentle cleanser and moisturiser, do not pick at darkened or flaky areas, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen consistently. Shade, hats, and reducing unnecessary heat exposure support the maintenance plan.

Seek prompt advice for blistering, crusting, marked swelling, escalating pain, weeping, or signs of infection after treatment. New sharply pale areas or pigment that becomes substantially darker should also be reviewed rather than treated again on schedule.

A changing patch that is one-sided, raised, bleeding, scaly, or unlike your usual melasma warrants diagnosis before any cosmetic laser session. Dark patches have several causes, and treating an uncertain lesion with pigment-targeting energy can delay appropriate care.

Ask how the diagnosis was distinguished from post-inflammatory pigmentation or sun damage, what changes are realistic, and how recurrence will be managed. Clarify the plan if pigment darkens, which skincare products are compatible, and whether topical treatment, a chemical peel, microneedling, or no procedure is more suitable for your skin.