Erbium:YAG laser resurfacing for refractory melasma.

BACKGROUND: Melasma is a facial dyspigmentation which is a common complaint in patients with darker skin tones. Many current therapies used for this condition are ineffective and can cause significant adverse effects.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of erbium:YAG laser resurfacing in the management of refractory melasma.

METHODS: Ten female patients with melasma unresponsive to previous therapy of bleaching creams and chemical peels were included in this study. Full face skin resurfacing using an erbium: YAG laser (2.94 microm) was performed using 5.1-7.6 J/cm2 energy. Clinical evaluations using the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) and melanin reflectance spectrometry measurements were taken preoperatively and at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 3, and 6 weeks and 3, 5, and 6 months postoperatively. Adverse effects after laser resurfacing such as prolonged erythema, infection, and hyperpigmentation were recorded.

RESULTS: There was marked improvement of the melasma immediately after laser surgery using the parameters outlined; however, between 3 and 6 weeks postoperatively, all patients exhibited post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Decreased MASI and melanin reflectance spectrometry measurement scores were noted after biweekly glycolic acid peels and at the end of 6 months, significant clinical improvement in the melasma was seen compared to the preoperative evaluation.

CONCLUSION: Erbium:YAG laser resurfacing effectively improves melasma; however, the almost universal appearance of transient post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation necessitates prompt and persistent intervention. The use of this laser therapy is recommended only for refractory melasma.