Variable pulsed light treatment of melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation – A pilot study

Abstract

Hyperpigmentation disorders are a serious aesthetic problem. Various therapies are applied to remove these lesions. The variable pulsed light (VPL) is similar to intense pulsed light (IPL), but instead of one flash of light, energy is provided in a few small and rapid micro-flashes. The aim of the study is a mexametric evaluation of results of the treatment of hyperpigmentation with the application of the VPL device as well as the patient's opinion on this kind of treatment. The therapy with the VPL was administered twice within a period of three weeks. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment procedure, we carried out the mexametric measurements three times. Eighteen women with hyperpigmentation disorders were included in the study. The lesions were lightened in thirteen patients. Three patients demonstrated more intensive hyperpigmentation. Twelve patients assessed the effects of the therapy as good and excellent. In the patients, in whom the initial mexametric results confirmed the strongest changes, the effect of the VPL therapy appeared to be the greatest. The obtained results allow claiming that the VPL method is effective for treating hyperpigmentation. The level of the patients’ satisfaction after the therapy is equally important.

Key Words::

• hyperpigmentation
• melisma
• variable pulsed light

Declaration of interest: The authors report no declarations of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper. The paper was supported by grant No. 503/3-066-01/503-01 from the Medical University of Łódź, Poland.