23 Sep LaseMD: Less than 24 Hours of Downtime to Treat Melasma
Melasma is the most stubborn form of hyperpigmentation, often presenting during hormone shifts as gray in color and spreading across the bridge of the nose and cheeks—thus dubbed the “mask of pregnancy.” RefinedMD offers many treatments to minimize melasma, including LaseMD. This laser is equal parts gentle and powerful, requiring under 24 hours of “downtime” that largely consists of visibly red skin similar to a sunburn. LaseMD can treat a myriad of other common skin conditions too, such as mild acne scarring, skin laxity, and poor tone and texture.
Melasma is often triggered by hormone fluctuations, particularly in pregnant women. In most cases it will (eventually) subside on its own, but this can take several weeks or months. Although melasma can technically happen anywhere, it is by far most commonly seen on the face and, given its size and unusual color, can be difficult to hide. If you’re struggling with melasma, you want and deserve treatment fast—and if you’re sporting that “mask of pregnancy,” you need a treatment that is safe and fits into a busy schedule. LaseMD makes the cut (and can help you with other skin woes at the same time!).
Loving LaseMD
LaseMD is one of the many non-ablative laser treatments available in our office. This 1927-nm fractional laser doesn’t injure the top layer of skin, but instead heats up the deeper skin layers so that the surface remains intact. It works from the inside out, ensuring that you can get back to your daily activities, perhaps with the excuse of spending a little too much time in the sun during lunch to explain the pinkness. Like any non-ablative laser, results aren’t immediate. It is a form of collagen induction therapy and you will notice an improvement in skin in the days and weeks following the treatment.
However, for those who want instant gratification, there are some initial improvements in skin. You will notice that skin is smoother, softer, and perhaps starting to get more even after your initial treatment. Most clients, especially those with melasma and other skin troubles, will require several treatments spaced a few weeks apart. The final results last anywhere from 6 – 12 months on average, and you can always schedule routine maintenance sessions to keep your new, brighter, more youthful skin.
What to Know About LaseMD
LaseMD is appropriate for all skin tones and types. Since it is a gentler laser, it does not pose the risk of unwanted hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin). Just like with any laser treatment, sun protection is critical. Avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible for two weeks before and after the treatment. During this time, it’s a good opportunity to reassess your sunscreen use. A medical-grade sunscreen with a broadband protection of at least SPF30 is recommended for everyone, but particularly those undergoing laser treatments.
Autumn and winter are ideal seasons for laser treatments (and chemical peels) because UV damage is not as severe. You can start your LaseMD treatment right now and enjoy full results by the new year. Although the exact number of initial treatments you will need will vary based on various factors, many clients achieve optimal results in 4 – 6 sessions.
Combining LaseMD with Other Treatments
Oftentimes the best way to get ideal results is with mixing and matching treatments. We will work with you to create a customized treatment plan. One of the best complements to LaseMD is microneedling, which also works by healing the skin from the inside out. Microneedling creates controlled injuries that encourage the skin to create more collagen. You may be able to undergo microneedling during your LaseMD session.
Upgrading your at-home skin care routine to exclusively medical-grade products is another must for everyone. Your skin also changes with the seasons, so autumn is the perfect time to work with our skin care experts and determine the best moisturizer, cleanser, serum(s), and sunscreen for you. Coupling the right at-home regimen with regular in-office treatments is the best approach to caring for your skin so that it is healthy, bright, clear, and youthful.
LaseMD is just one of the many lasers we have in our office. To learn more about this and other options such as Halo, Clear + Brilliant, Ultherapy, and more, contact RefinedMD today. Give us a call or, for the fastest response, complete the online contact form right now.