Application of a novel intense pulsed light device on melasma lesions

Objective To investigate the long-term efficacy and safety of a new intense pulsed light(IPL) device in the treatment of melasma lesions.Methods Two hundred and fifty-six women with refractory melasma were enrolled in this study.Subjects received a total of four IPL treatments.The efficacy was evaluated using the spectrophotometry(L value) ,a percentage category scale,and a 4 point satisfaction scale before and after each session.Results Mean L value increased significantly from the baseline to the follow up visits of each treatment.Two hundred and two patients(78.9%) obtained 51%～100% improvements,according to the over-all evaluation by dermatologists.Over 70% patients considered their results satisfactory or very satisfactory.Adverse reactions were mainly transient erythema and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.Conclusions IPL treatment is a good option for patients with melasma.Adverse actions were minimal.