What should you know about q switch nd yag laser for melasma?

Melasma causes flat brown or grey-brown patches, often on the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip. A clinician confirms the diagnosis and considers triggers such as sunlight, visible light, hormones, heat, and irritation. Nd:YAG light can be selected to interact with pigment, but excessive energy or repeated irritation may worsen colour in some skin. Temporary redness, swelling, dryness, darkening, or lightening can follow treatment.

Discuss whether topical care and strict daily light protection should come before or alongside laser. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, hormonal medicines, recent tanning, sensitive skin, and previous pigment changes after procedures. Use the recommended cleanser and pigment-care products, avoid picking or harsh exfoliation, and attend follow-up visits so the response can guide further decisions.

Contact the provider if patches become rapidly darker, the skin burns, blisters, develops open areas, or remains increasingly painful. Spreading redness, drainage, fever, or a persistent new colour change needs assessment. Seek urgent help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or widespread hives.

Ask how the diagnosis was confirmed, why this wavelength and setting are being considered, how your skin tone affects the risk of darkening, and what daily light protection is required. Ask how recurrence will be managed and when the plan should be reconsidered.