Melasma is one of the most common causes of uneven skin tone, especially among adults in sunny regions like Dubai. It appears as dark, irregular patches—usually on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip—and is often triggered by sun exposure, hormonal changes, or genetics.

Many patients visit Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) in Dubai seeking an effective and safe solution to lighten these patches. However, one of the most common questions we receive is:
“How many laser sessions will I need to remove melasma?”

The truth is, melasma is a complex condition that requires a personalized approach—but with the right treatment plan and expert care, significant improvement is achievable.

Why Melasma Needs Multiple Treatment Sessions

Unlike simple dark spots, melasma affects deeper layers of the skin. This means a single treatment session—no matter how advanced—usually cannot remove all pigmentation at once.

Laser treatments such as HELIOS III or Q-Switched Nd: YAG lasers, available at DRHC Dubai, work gradually by breaking down excess melanin in stages. Your skin then naturally clears the fragmented pigment over time.

Because melasma develops slowly, treating it safely and effectively requires a step-by-step process that allows the skin to heal and respond between sessions.

Average Number of Sessions for Melasma Treatment

On average, most patients need between 4 to 8 laser sessions for noticeable improvement, depending on:

• Severity of pigmentation – Deep or long-standing melasma may require additional sessions.
• Skin type and tone – Some skin tones respond faster than others.
• Type of laser used – Advanced systems like HELIOS III offer faster, safer results with less downtime.
• Lifestyle factors – Regular sun exposure or hormonal fluctuations can influence how quickly melasma fades.

At DRHC, your dermatologist will assess your skin carefully and create a personalized treatment plan to ensure the best possible outcome while keeping your skin’s safety a priority.

What to Expect During the Treatment Journey

Each laser session is usually quick, lasting 15–30 minutes, depending on the treated area. Most patients describe the sensation as a mild tingling or warm snapping feeling—well-tolerated without anesthesia.

After the session, there may be slight redness or warmth for a few hours, which subsides naturally. Over the following weeks, you’ll notice your dark patches begin to lighten gradually.

For optimal results, laser sessions are typically spaced 2–4 weeks apart, giving your skin time to recover and regenerate between treatments.

Maintaining Results After Treatment

While laser therapy effectively lightens pigmentation, maintenance is key to preventing melasma from returning. Here’s how you can protect your results:

• Use sunscreen daily – SPF 50+ is essential in Dubai’s sunny climate.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure during peak hours.
• Follow a gentle skincare routine recommended by your dermatologist.
• Consider maintenance laser sessions every few months if advised.

At DRHC Dubai, your care doesn’t stop after the last laser session. Our specialists guide you through long-term skin protection strategies to maintain your results and prevent future pigmentation.

Are Laser Treatments Safe for Melasma?

Yes. Modern systems like HELIOS III are designed to target pigmentation safely, even for sensitive and darker skin tones common in the UAE. When performed by qualified dermatologists, the procedure is non-invasive, gentle, and highly effective.

We understand that any laser treatment can feel intimidating. At DRHC, your safety, comfort, and confidence are our top priorities. Every session is customized, monitored, and performed under strict medical supervision to ensure optimal results.