Melasma

What is melasma and chloasma and can they be treated with IPL or lasers? Melasma is symmetrical hyperpigmented patches commonly found on the cheeks, upper lip, chin and forehead. It is often related to sun exposure, the pill and other medications as well as thyroid dysfunction with 90% of cases occurring in females. Chloasma is the term given to melasma in pregnancy. It is not recommended to treat either condition with IPL as it could worsen the pigmentation. If treatment is sought, fractional laser treatment is considered the best option.