A comparative study of 35% glycolic acid peel versus modified Kligman’s regimen in treating Melasma in patients with dark skin

Abstract

Introduction: Melasma is the most common cause of facial Melanesia classically presenting as hyper pigmented macules to patches on the face causing great psychological stress. The pathogenicity of it is not yet completely understood. Many treatment options are available but nothing is satisfactory, especially in black patients. The study aims to compare the serial 35% Glycolic Acid (GA) Peels versus a topical modified Kligman’s regimen in treating Melasma in patients with dark skin.Materials and methods: Prospective and comparative study was done on 100 cases of Melasma, dividing them into two groups with 50 patients each. One group received topical modified Kligman’s formula (MKF) daily and the other group received 35% glycolic acid peels once in 4weeks for 12 weeks. Response was assessed by MASI score.Results: At the end of 12 weeks good to very good response was seen i.e. 95% on MKF treated patients where as 85% on glycolic acid peel patients. Burning sensation and redness was observed in many patients in glycolic acid group whereas cuneiform eruptions in MKF group.Conclusion: Both glycolic acid peels and modified Kligman’s formula are effective in treating Melasma in dark skinned patients both used in combination gives an accelerated response.