Successful treatment of malar dermal melasma with a fractional ablative CO₂ laser in a patient with type V skin.

Background/objective: Melasma is a common disorder of hypermelanosis, and although numerous treatment modalities have been employed, many cases are refractory to treatment or the improvement after therapy is temporary.

Methods: The clinical files, treatment parameters, and photographs of a 59-year-old female with black skin with refractory malar dermal melasma treated using a fractionally ablative CO₂ laser (Affirm 10,600 nm) for seven sessions were carefully reviewed.

Results: After treatment, clinical improvement was achieved.

Conclusion: The fractional ablative CO₂ laser is a potentially safe and effective modality for the treatment of dermal melasma in Fitzpatrick type V skin.