Abstract
IntroductionMelasma is one of the most common pigmentary disorders seen by dermatologists and often occurs among women with darker complexion (Fitzpatrick skin type IV–VI). Even though melasma is a widely recognized cause of significant cosmetic disfigurement worldwide and in India, there is a lack of systematic and clinically usable treatment algorithms and guidelines for melasma management. The present article outlines the epidemiology of melasma, reviews the various treatment options along with their mode of action, underscores the diagnostic dilemmas and quantification of illness, and weighs the evidence of currently available therapies.MethodsA panel of eminent dermatologists was created and their expert opinion was sought to address lacunae in information to arrive at a working algorithm for optimizing outcome in Indian patients. A thorough literature search from recognized medical databases preceded the panel discussions. The discussions and consensus from the panel discussions were drafted and refined as evidence-based treatment for melasma. The deployment of this algorithm is expected to act as a basis for guiding and refining therapy in the future.ResultsIt is recommended that photoprotection and modified Kligman’s formula can be used as a first-line therapy for up to 12 weeks. In most patients, maintenance therapy will be necessary with non-hydroquinone (HQ) products or fixed triple combination intermittently, twice a week or less often. Concomitant camouflage should be offered to the patient at any stage during therapy. Monthly follow-ups are recommended to assess the compliance, tolerance, and efficacy of therapy.ConclusionThe key therapy recommended is fluorinated steroid containing 2–4% HQ-based triple combination for first line, with additional selective peels if required in second line. Lasers are a last resort.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s13555-014-0064-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
