Pico laser for melasma: before and after

A before-and-after photograph is affected by lighting, camera settings, makeup, skin preparation and the time chosen for the comparison. Early after treatment, redness or temporary darkening can make the area look different before it settles. The useful comparison is made after the clinician’s planned review period, using consistent conditions.

Melasma is influenced by light, heat and hormonal factors, so pigment may fade unevenly or return. A mark that resembles melasma may instead be post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or a sun spot; the diagnosis affects the safest plan.

Before treatment, disclose pregnancy, medicines, recent tanning, active irritation and any history of pigment darkening after procedures. Ask whether [Picosecond Laser](/technology/picosecond-laser/) is suitable and whether [Laser Toning](/treatments/laser-and-energy/laser-toning/) or another approach should be considered.

Afterward, use the recommended gentle skin care and strict sun and heat protection. Do not scrub, pick flakes or add strong products unless the clinician approves them. Keep follow-up photographs in similar light and report changes rather than judging the result from a single day.

Contact the clinic for worsening pain, blistering, open skin, spreading redness, pus or pigment that becomes progressively darker. Seek prompt assessment for a new or changing lesion, bleeding, significant swelling near the eyes or any vision symptom. These findings need clinical review rather than another cosmetic session.

Ask: Is the diagnosis definitely melasma? What will count as improvement? When should photographs be compared? How will we manage recurrence? What is the plan if my skin darkens after treatment?