Related Services
Laser Toning (& Soft Peel) for Melasma
PICO / Spectra Laser Toning (& Soft Peel) are laser skin rejuvenation treatments using our PICO q-switched 1064 laser in q-switched (ultrashort pulse duration nanosecond) mode.
PICO / Spectra laser toning (& Soft Peel) are safe, gentle and effective treatments for the improvement of certain hyperpigmented conditions, in particular, melasma (aka "mask of pregnancy") and post-inflammatory pigmentation (PIH). Laser toning also improves texture, unevenness of skin and reduces pores.
Laser toning is a full face non-ablative laser treatment without Spectra Lotion; while Soft Peel refers to the same treatment using Spectra Lotion. In contrast, Soft Peel is slightly or minimally ablative and may be associated with up to several hours of redness.
Spectra lotion is a proprietary carbon particle - oil solution applied topically prior to the full face non-ablative 1064 laser toning "peel". The laser energy photomechanically destroys the micro fine carbon particles, improving skin tone (specifically superficial/epidermal pigment) and texture.
Laser toning (without Spectra lotion) targets deeper (dermal) pigment.
Laser toning (& Soft Peel) are the gold standard in laser treatment of melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation; as both of these conditions are characterized by a combination of both epidermal and dermal pigmentation.
Click here for our Before & Afters Photo Slide Presentation.
See more laser melasma treatment before and after photos (and other treatment applications photos of our PICO - Spectra Laser).
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) often responds to topical skin care without the need for additional laser therapy.
However, melasma is often more resistant and recurrent.
Multiple treatments (usually 6-10) are the rule for melasma and periodic maintenance treatments every 3-6 months are often recommended. Several or more treatments may be required before you notice improvement, which is typically gradual and progressive over the treatment series.
Topical skin lightening skin care products are a necessary adjunct therapy. Melasma can be triggered or aggravated by nominal sun exposure and / or elevated or changing hormonal states associated with aging, pregnancy or oral contraceptive use (i.e. taking birth control pills). Therefore, sun avoidance and / or judicious use of spf 30 sunblock is required throughout and after the laser toning (& Soft Peels) treatment series. In fact, applying sunblock daily during the treatment series and after will help your treatment work better, faster and help prevent recurrence.
Few contraindications exist to PICO / Spectra laser toning / Soft Peel treatments, but include: Accutane (Isotretinoin) use within the past 6 months, pregnancy / breast feeding, AIDS / HIV or hepatitis, active skin disease / skin infection or untreated skin cancer in treatment area.
Advantages of PICO / Spectra laser toning / Soft Peel treatments include:
- Reduces melasma (& PIH) safely and effectively
- No downtime
- Safe for all skin types
- Smoothes out uneven skin tones
- Improves fine wrinkles
- Shrinks pores / reduces scars
- Short procedure time
- No anesthetic needed
- Long-lasting results with post-laser care
Please download our PICO - Spectra Laser Informed Consent & Patient Instructions for more information.
At Strimling Dermatology, Laser & Vein Institute of Summerlin, Las Vegas; Laser Toning and Soft Peels for melasma are performed or supervised by board certified “Award Winning Cosmetic Surgeon” Dr. Robert Strimling, MD. With over 25 years experience, our Dr. Strimling is one of the most experienced cosmetic laser dermatologists in Las Vegas. Also, our dermatologists have been voted or selected among the "Best Dermatologists" in Las Vegas and America multiple years.
Strimling Dermatology, Laser & Vein Institute of Summerlin, Las Vegas treats patients not only from all over the Clark County valley and nearby areas, but also, nationally and internationally.
Contact us at info@strimderm.com or call us at (702) 243-6400 to schedule a laser toning for melasma or hyperpigmentation consultation with one of our experienced laser specialists.