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Home » Cosmetic Concerns » Best Treatment for Melasma & Brown Spots | NYC

Best Treatment for Melasma & Brown Spots | NYC


Brown Spots and Melasma Causes

A great deal of research is still needed to better understand the cause/s of melasma or brown spots. It is believed that certain medications, environmental conditions, hormones and medical conditions trigger melanocytes, the cells that give skin its color, to go into overdrive and produce more melanin. These include:

  • Sunlight
  • The increase of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy
  • Certain birth control, seizure, antibiotic and blood pressure medication

The Best Treatment for Melasma and Brown Spots

Our dermatologist, Dr. Hellman, notes that for many patients, lasers such as the Alexandrite laser as well as the Fotofacial laser can effectively remove or fade brown spots. Laser peels with the UltraPulse Laser can produce a dramatic improvement in skin tone. Since each patient is different, treatment is tailored to the needs of each person depending on their skin color and the type of spots they have.

Fading regimens using high percentages of hydroquinone cream for melasma combined with Glycolic Acid creams (available on our product page) and additional prescription items, are the first step for many of these types of spots. Chemical peels for melasma such as our glycolic peels and microdermabrasions are the first stage of treatment, along with careful sun protection.

Melasma Pictures – Melasma Laser Treatment Before & After

Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (right side, oblique view)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (right side, oblique view)
Fotofacial Treatment - Before and After Photos: Female (hands)

*Results may vary

Why Choose Hellman Dermatology for the Best Melasma Treatment?

Dr. Judith Hellman is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in laser acne treatments, Botox and fillers, and cosmetic radiofrequency and laser devices. She is a respected member of the American Academy of Dermatology, The American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, the Dermatologic Society of Greater New York and Mount Sinai Medical Center.

Her knowledge and expertise has been featured on various radio and television programs, as well as interviews in magazines on medical and cosmetic dermatology topics. In addition to this recognition, Dr. Hellman has also been named as a NY Times Super Doctor for nine years running.

Schedule your consultation with us today and experience the best in care with an individualized treatment plan for brown spots and melasma!

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Frequently Asked Questions


Are brown spots the same as melasma?

Brown spots and melasma are two different types of skin discoloration. Brown spots are typically lighter than melasma in color and may not be symmetrical in a pattern like melasma often is. They’re also usually smaller in size than those associated with melasma. Additionally, brown spots are typically caused by sun exposure rather than hormonal changes like those that may cause melasma.

What is the best treatment for brown spots on face?

One of the best treatments for brown spots on the face is typically laser treatment. With laser treatment, the brown spots are targeted with pulses of light that break up pigmented cells. Depending on the type of laser used and the severity of the brown spots, multiple treatments may be required to clear them up completely.

What should I expect with laser treatment for brown spots before and after?

Our dermatologist will examine your skin to determine if laser treatment is the best option for you. Potential risks and side effects are discussed during your consultation before moving forward with laser treatment for brown spots. You may experience some discomfort during your treatment and have some mild swelling post-treatment. It is also important to follow all aftercare instructions carefully during this time period.

Results from each laser treatment can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as skin type and brown spot severity. Typically, it takes several weeks for results to become visible as new layers of healthy skin begin forming over the area being treated. A number of laser treatment sessions may be needed before your desired results are achieved.

Is it possible to prevent further development of existing melanin deposits?

Yes! One way to reduce the further development of existing melanin deposits is through sun protection measures such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors, or by limiting time spent in direct sunlight. Additionally, avoiding certain hormone treatments (like birth control pills) may help reduce new melanin growth if you already have existing deposits due to hormone fluctuations during pregnancy or menopause.

Written by Dr. Hellman on 2/5/2020

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Judith Hellman

About the Author

Dr. Judith Hellman is a board-certified dermatologist and an associate professor at Mt. Sinai Medical Center. Her passion for people shines through when consulting on a diverse range of medical skin conditions and how these may affect health, aesthetics, and self-esteem. Dr. Hellman has lectured globally and has authored many journal articles. Her fluency in English, Hungarian, and Hebrew helps enhance multilingual communication for many dermatology patients in NYC.

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