Melasma is a common skin condition that causes dark, discoloured patches on the face, usually affecting women. While there are many treatments available, laser therapy has emerged as a very effective option in recent years. Here’s everything you should know about treating melasma with laser in Winnipeg:
What causes melasma?
Skin specialists believe that melasma is caused by hormonal, environmental, and genetic factors:
- Hormonal: Melasma often develops during pregnancy or while taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy. These hormonal changes can stimulate the production of melanin, the pigment that gives colour to the skin, leading to the development of melasma.
- Sun exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can trigger the production of melanin, leading to the development of melasma. This is why melasma often appears on the face, which receives a lot of sun exposure. Your Total Wrapture skin technician was not joking about using sunscreen every day!
- Genetics and Medication: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing melasma, as it tends to run in families. In addition, some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication may also contribute to the cause of melasma.

How does laser treat melasma?
Laser therapy works by targeting the melanin in the skin, which is responsible for the dark pigmentation associated with melasma. Different types of lasers can be used to treat melasma, including fractional lasers and PicoSure laser.
Specifically, fractional lasers work by creating tiny columns of targetted heat in the skin, which triggers the body’s natural healing response and promotes the growth of new, healthy skin cells. In contrast, PicoSure is a type of laser that emits ultra-short pulses of energy, breaking up the pigment in the skin without affecting the surrounding tissue.
What about facials and creams?
Laser therapy is considered to be one of the most effective cosmetic solutions, but it can be used in combination with other treatments, such as topical creams and chemical peels, which enhance the results. Keep reading for a list of key ingredients to look for! Most of our guests require multiple laser treatments (we recommend starting with 3) to achieve the results they want. These treatments are typically spaced several weeks apart and yield noticeable results.

Fractional Laser or PicoSure Laser?
Both PicoSure and fractional laser treatments are effective in treating melasma. The best option for you will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of your melasma, as well as your skin type and sensitivity.
PicoSure laser can be more effective for treating stubborn or resistant melasma, as it emits ultra-short pulses of energy that can break up pigment more effectively than traditional lasers.
Fractional laser treatments can be customized to target specific areas of the skin, making it ideal for treating patchy areas of melasma. It is usually more suitable for patients with sensitive skin, as it can be tailored to minimize discomfort and downtime.
Our Total Wrapture expert laser technicians will determine which laser treatment is right for you during your consultation, based on your unique skin, individual needs and goals.

What should I expect during my melasma laser treatment?
Before: First, you will receive a thorough skin consultation with an experienced laser and skin technician to determine the perfect laser type and level of energy to use. Next, you will lie back comfortably while your skin is cleansed. During the treatment, you will wear protective eye goggles to shield your eyes from the laser light.
During: The laser will be applied to the affected areas of the skin, targeting the melanin in the skin cells that cause melasma. Laser therapy is safe and well-tolerated. The treatment may feel like a warm or hot sensation, or may be virtually painless. It is quick and only lasts for a few, short minutes.
After: Once the treatment is complete, you may experience redness, swelling, or mild discomfort, but this usually resolves within 2-48 hours.

How can I maintain my results?
It is important to use sunscreen every day to maintain your improving results, regardless of the season. Our clients experience significant improvement in the appearance of their skin with each passing laser treatment (we recommend starting with 3).
You can continue enjoying your clear skin by protecting it from the sun, using skincare products recommended by your laser technician, and keeping your skin healthy with facials. Some of our clients come in for an occasional touch-up laser session to maintain their results after a particularly sunny summer.
What skincare products should I use?
Your Total Wrapture laser technician can help you select skincare products for a daily routine that will support your laser melasma treatment results. They will likely recommend products that contain melanin suppressants which help inhibit the production of the pigment that melasma is made up of.
Key melanin suppressant ingredients to look for in skincare:
- Kojic Acid (from a type of mushroom)
- Vitamin C
- Retinoids
- Glycolic Acid (contained in Vivier’s Exfoliant Forte cream)
- Azelaic Acid
- Ferulic Acid (contained in Image MD Restoring Power-C Serum)
- Alpha Arbutin (contained in Vivier’s Radiance Serum)
- Hydroquinone: An experts-approved skin lightener, hydroquinone works by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which plays a role in melanin production. By doing so, it reduces the appearance of dark spots, offering a clearer complexion.
- AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids): AHAs are naturally-occurring acids that exfoliate the skin’s surface layers. By promoting cell turnover, they help in bringing newer, less-pigmented skin cells to the surface, thereby lightening dark spots over time.
- Retinol: A derivative of vitamin A, retinol stimulates collagen production and accelerates cell turnover. As a result, it can diminish the appearance of hyperpigmentation, revealing a smoother and more even-toned skin.
- Niacinamide: A form of vitamin B3, niacinamide helps in reducing the visibility of dark spots by interfering with the process that leads to melanin production. Additionally, it boasts anti-inflammatory properties that further benefit the skin.

How do I get started?
You can book your first treatment today! Every first treatment begins with a thorough consultation to ensure laser is right for you. You will receive customized information on the recommended number of treatments to start with, what to expect for your unique melasma, pricing and package options, timeline, and more. Click here to book online. You can also call us at 204-837-9727 to book.
See you soon!
Great article! Melasma can be a challenging condition, but laser treatments can offer promising results. It’s important to be well-informed before considering any treatment options. Thanks for sharing this valuable information!