Abstract
Melasma is a form of inherited hyper-melanosis that appears as asymmetrical, brown-colored, uneven, reticulated macules on UVR-exposed skin, particularly on the facial area. The etiopathogenesis of melasma has been linked to several causes, including UV exposure, endocrine factors, genetic predisposition, anti-epileptic medications, and various cosmetics. The initial course of treatment for hyperpigmentation involves applying topical formulations of widely used substances like kojic acid, glycolic acid, and hydroquinone. Pharmaceuticals such as melatonin, tranexamic acid, and cysteamine hydrochloride are administered orally in this process. Chemical peels and laser therapy are examples of second-line therapies that are applied under the direction of trained experts. Unfortunately, these treatments have certain drawbacks and complications, including erythema, dryness, and skin peeling, and they take time to work, necessitating the use of herbal formulations for the management of hyperpigmentation. Bioactive compounds isolated from plants, such as arbutin, aloesin, flavonoids, hesperidin, licorice, ellagic acids, genistein, and quercetin, inhibit melanogenesis without melanocytotoxicity by different mechanisms. This review provides information on natural bioactive compounds used for the management of melasma.
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