
Can laser treatment remove melasma?
I am 39 years old this year, and melasma has already started appearing on my cheeks. I heard that lasers are quite effective. I would like to know whether laser treatment can remove melasma.

In general, laser treatment can effectively remove melasma and has certain clinical efficacy. The principle of laser treatment for melasma involves using high-energy laser light to precisely target the pigment particles in the melasma-affected areas, breaking them into tiny particles, which are then gradually eliminated from the body through the metabolic system, thereby reducing or eliminating the melasma.
Laser treatment can specifically target the pigmented areas of melasma with minimal damage to the surrounding healthy skin tissue. For melasma patches that are darker in color and have relatively clear borders, laser therapy can significantly reduce both the color intensity and the affected area. Laser treatment generally does not require hospitalization and the treatment time is relatively short, making it convenient for patients to undergo.
Some patients may experience temporary reactions such as redness, swelling, pain, or crusting after treatment, but these typically resolve on their own within a few days. Additionally, improper setting of laser parameters or incorrect operation techniques may lead to complications such as increased pigmentation, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or scar formation. Therefore, laser treatment for melasma should be performed by experienced dermatologists. A thorough evaluation of the patient's condition should be conducted before treatment, and an individualized treatment plan developed. At the same time, patients should pay attention to sun protection before and after treatment, avoiding ultraviolet radiation to enhance treatment effectiveness and reduce the risk of recurrence.