Doctor of First Degree Specialization Nguyen Ngoc Tran, a dermatologist at Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM, reported Ms. Hoa's skin had hyperpigmentation and sensitivity. Continuing to use exfoliating or harsh products before recovery could worsen her melasma.

Melasma is a chronic hyperpigmentation condition prone to recurrence. It links to sun exposure, hormones, genetics, irritation, and inflammation. Effective melasma treatment involves more than just exfoliating dark skin; it requires controlling factors that promote hyperpigmentation and maintaining the skin's protective barrier.

Ms. Hoa's self-peeling likely worsened her hyperpigmentation, according to the doctor. Chemical peels can treat pigmentary disorders like melasma but require specific active ingredients, concentrations, and techniques. Improper or excessive peeling can cause irritation, inflammation, and increase the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, particularly for those with sensitive skin.

Ms. Hoa's treatment prioritized skin recovery, including moisturizing, sun protection, and avoiding irritating products. After her skin stabilized, the doctor began a melasma treatment with laser pico pro, administered 6-8 times, once a month. This technology uses short energy pulses to break down pigment particles, allowing the body to gradually eliminate them. The doctor adjusted parameters based on Ms. Hoa's skin and melasma severity to prevent unnecessary damage.

A doctor uses laser pico pro to treat melasma for Ms. Hoa. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital.

A doctor uses laser pico pro to treat melasma for Ms. Hoa. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital.

After 4 laser sessions, Ms. Hoa's melasma and freckles visibly faded. Her skin tone became more even, and the darkening significantly reduced.

Doctor Tran emphasized that laser treatment improves pigmentation but does not fully eliminate factors causing melasma recurrence. Sun exposure, hormonal changes, skin irritation, and genetics influence melasma formation. Patients receive ongoing guidance on skin care and sun protection to maintain results and limit recurrence after pigmentation improves.

The doctor advised melasma patients against buying products with unknown ingredients or performing at-home exfoliating treatments. If redness, burning, peeling, stinging, or increased skin sensitivity occurs, stop the suspected product and seek medical examination to prevent complications.

Minh Huong

*Character's name has been changed