Treatment of melasma and the use of intense pulsed light: a review.

Melasma is a complex multifactorial disorder whose pathogenesis is not well understood. In addition to increased pigmentation, increased vascularity associated with pigmentation is present. A variety of topical treatments targeting pigmentation are available with temporary improvement of mainly the epidermal components of melasma. Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a broadband light source that can target a wide range of cutaneous structures, including deeper pigmentation and vasculature. We describe 5 cases of persistent facial melasma treated with the IPL and a hydroquinone-based skin care system (Obagi Nu-Derm; Obagi Medical Products, Long Beach, CA), showing improvement of facial melasma pigmentation and vascularity.