The Fraxel laser is on the way to becoming one of the most popular methods to treat melasma. The use of Fraxel laser for treatment had just been approved by the FDA.

Before we discuss this treatment, it helps to understand what melasma is. Melasma is one of the most common skin conditions, characterized by brownish patches of skin on the face. The condition is believed to be brought about by the effect of female sex hormones on melanocyte stimulation. Melanocytes are naturally occurring cells in the body that produce pigments on the skin. Usually, melasma is triggered by events that cause fluctuations in the female sex hormones. These events include pregnancy, engaging in hormone replacement therapy, or the usage of birth control pills. While melasma is not a serious skin condition and does not have major adverse consequences on one’s health, it can often cause people to be uncomfortable about the appearance of their skin. This may cause low levels of self-esteem and self-confidence.

Fraxel laser works by promoting the healing processes inherent in the skin. It also triggers the cells to produce more collagen and skin cells. The FDA approved Fraxel laser as treatment for melasma, along with other conditions such as acne scars, facial wrinkles, and age spots.

Fraxel laser is targeted to treat excessive pigmentation. It creates a number of small columns in the deeper layers of the skin. These columns are called microscopic treatment zones, and they get rid of old epidermal cells that contain pigments. Through reducing pigment cells, the brown patches characteristic of melasma will also fade.

Studies on the use of Fraxel laser have shown that one session of Fraxel treatment can already have an effect on melasma. However, for it to be truly effective, dermatologists and doctors would recommend at least four sessions of treatment using Fraxel laser. Each session should be done in 2 to 4 week intervals. Usually, the best results can be seen in around 2 to 3 months.

Fraxel laser can also have some side effects, but they are not incredibly dangerous. Some of the most common ones are swelling and redness. Swelling does not affect all patients, and if ever it does, it usually resides in a span of 2 days. Skin redness also takes approximately the same amount of time to fade. Fraxel laser treatment is relatively safe because there is a very low risk of scarring and infection.