Evaluation of intense pulse light (IPL) for melasma: Efficacy, safety and patient experience.

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety and patient experience of Intense pulse light (IPL) in our population. Study Design: Quasi-experimental. Setting: Department of Dermatology, HIT Hospital. Period: December 2022 to May 2023. Material & Methods: 34 females with melasma fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected for this study. Exclusion criteria include thyroid disease, pregnant and lactating mothers, history of photosensitivity and retinoid intake. mMASI-1 was calculated before treatment. Treatment comprises of 4 sessions of IPL 2 week’s apart mMASI-2 was again calculated 2 weeks after the last session. Side effect were monitored, and improvement in mMASI score was assessed using a 4-point scale (Poor, Fair, Good, and Excellent). Additionally, the treatment experience reported by patient was evaluated using a 4-point scale (Not Satisfactory, Satisfactory, Substantial, and Remarkable). Results: Results of this study had shown a decrease in the mean baseline mMASI (modified Melasma Area and Severity Index) score from 14.22±5.32 to mMASI II 7.41±3.5, which was recorded two weeks after the last IPL session. The p-value, was found to be statistically significant (<0.000). Conclusion: IPL is a valuable treatment option for melasma, offering a significant improvement in pigmentation. It is well tolerated and associated with minimal side effects.