What should you know about RDL for melasma?

RDL is often used to describe a dermatology laser or light approach, but the exact device and settings matter. Melasma causes uneven brown or grey-brown patches, commonly on the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip. Heat and inflammation from a procedure may stimulate pigment in some people, especially when melasma is active or the skin is prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

A consultation should distinguish melasma from other causes of dark patches, including sun-damaged skin or another pigment disorder. Treatment aims are usually gradual lightening and fewer relapses rather than a once-only correction. Your clinician may consider your skin tone, pregnancy or hormone-related triggers, previous reactions, and current skincare before recommending RDL.

Bring a list of products and medicines, and mention recent tanning, active irritation, cold sores, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Use broad-spectrum sun protection, shade, and a hat because ultraviolet and visible light can deepen melasma. Avoid starting strong exfoliants or bleaching products immediately before a procedure unless your clinician has advised it.

Ask which device is meant by RDL, whether a small test area is appropriate, how many visits may be considered, and what aftercare reduces inflammation. A dermatologist may discuss topical treatment or alternatives such as [Laser Toning](/treatments/laser-and-energy/laser-toning/) alongside pigment protection. Do not pick peeling skin; follow the prescribed gentle cleansing and moisturising plan.

Contact the treating clinic promptly for blistering, increasing pain, pus, marked swelling, or redness that keeps spreading after treatment. Seek urgent care for facial swelling with breathing difficulty or a rapidly worsening allergic reaction. Arrange a review if patches become noticeably darker, develop a new pattern, or fail to settle after the expected recovery period; this may require a different diagnosis or plan.

Which RDL device and wavelength are you considering, and why does it suit my pigment pattern? What is the plan if my melasma darkens? Which sunscreen and skincare products should I use before and after treatment? Would another option, such as [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/) or [Microneedling](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/microneedling/), be more suitable?