What to expect from picosecond laser treatment for melasma

Melasma produces brown or grey-brown patches, often on the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip. Picosecond laser creates very brief energy pulses that may fragment pigment, but heat or irritation can sometimes make facial pigmentation more noticeable. The clinician should consider your skin tone, pattern, recent sun exposure, pregnancy or hormonal factors, and current skincare before recommending treatment. Improvement is evaluated gradually, and laser may be one part of a broader plan rather than the only treatment.

Discuss pregnancy, breastfeeding, recent tanning, sensitive skin, cold sores, and any medicines or light-sensitive products before the appointment. Follow instructions for simplifying skincare beforehand. Afterward, cleanse gently, moisturise, avoid rubbing or picking, and use consistent broad-spectrum sun protection with shade and hats when possible. Do not restart strong exfoliants or pigment products until the clinician says your skin barrier has recovered. Keep review visits so the plan can be modified if darkening appears.

Seek advice for blistering, severe or increasing pain, spreading redness, crusting, pus, or pigmentation that is rapidly worsening. Contact the clinic promptly for swelling around the eyes or any change in vision. Mild redness, warmth, tightness, or temporary darkening may follow treatment, but symptoms should trend toward settling rather than intensifying.

Ask whether your pattern is suitable for laser, what other melasma treatments should be used alongside it, how sunlight will be managed, and how recurrence will be handled. Ask what signs mean the next session should be delayed.