Laser vs Cream: What Really Works for Pigmentation?

Pigmentation is one of the most common skin complaints—dark patches, uneven skin tone, sun spots, melasma—and the big question everyone asks is:

“Doctor, laser karwa lein ya cream se theek hoga?”

Let’s make it simple.

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First, Understand What Pigmentation Is

Pigmentation means extra melanin (skin colour) building up in certain areas, making those parts look darker.

It can happen due to:

• Sun exposure

• Hormonal changes (like melasma)

• Pimples leaving behind marks

• Skin injuries or burns

• Certain medications or internal health issues

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Creams for Pigmentation: What They Do

Skin-lightening creams usually contain ingredients like:

• Hydroquinone

• Kojic Acid

• Vitamin C

• Niacinamide

• Azelaic Acid

• Retinoids (like tretinoin)

These work by:

• Slowing down melanin production

• Lightening dark areas gradually

• Improving skin texture over time

Pros:

• Easy to use at home

• Budget-friendly

• Useful for early or mild pigmentation

Cons:

• Results are slow (take 6–12 weeks)

• Some ingredients may cause irritation or dryness

• May not work on deeper pigmentation like stubborn melasma or long-standing spots

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Laser for Pigmentation: What It Does

Laser treatments (like Q-switched Nd:YAG laser) use light energy to break down the melanin particles under the skin.

These broken pigment particles are then cleared by your body naturally.

Pros:

• Works faster than creams

• More effective on deep or stubborn pigmentation

• Can treat larger areas in fewer sessions

• Safe when done by trained hands

Cons:

• Cost is higher than creams

• May need 3–6 sessions

• Requires sunscreen and aftercare

• Not suitable for everyone (sensitive or very dark skin needs careful selection)

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So, What’s Better – Laser or Cream?

There’s no one-answer-fits-all. Here’s a quick guide:

Condition	Creams	Laser
Mild sun spots	Yes	Optional
Acne marks	Yes	Yes (for faster results)
Melasma	Creams + Laser (Combo works best)
Old, stubborn patches	Not enough alone	Recommended
Sensitive skin	Start with creams	Laser only after evaluation

Best Approach: Combo Therapy

Most patients get the best results with a combo of both:

Start with creams to prep the skin, then go for laser to speed up results. After laser, maintenance with creams helps prevent recurrence.

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Final Advice from Dr. Rizwan

Don’t pick laser or cream based on ads or social media videos.

Skin type, pigmentation depth, and cause—sab kuch dekhna padta hai.

At Dr. Rizwan’s Skin, Cosmetic & Laser Clinic, we first assess your skin, then decide what will suit you best.