Melasma Area And Severity Index Score Research Articles

Comparative study of melasma in patients before and after treatment based on lipomics

BackgroundSkin barrier alterations play a crucial function in melasma development. Past researches have demonstrated variations in lipid content between the epidermis of melasma lesions and normal tissues, along with the varied expression of lipid-related genes in melasma. This study aimed to analyze the lipidome profiles of skin surface lipids (SSL) in patients with melasma before and after treatment to understand associated abnormalities.MethodsMelasma was treated with tranexamic acid orally and hydroquinone cream topically. Disease was assessed using the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI), and the impact to life was evaluated with Melasma Quality of Life (MELASQoL) score. Epidermal melanin particles were observed using reflection confocal microscopy (RCM), whereas epidermal pigment and blood vessel morphology were observed using dermoscopy, and SSL samples were collected. Specific information regarding alterations in lipid composition was obtained through multivariate analysis of the liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry data.ResultsAfter treatment, patients with melasma exhibited decreased MASI and MELASQoL scores (P < 0.001); RCM revealed reduced melanin content in the lesions, and dermoscopy revealed fewer blood vessels. Fifteen lipid subclasses and 382 lipid molecules were identified using lipidomic assays. The expression levels of total lipids, phosphatidylcholine, and phosphatidylethanolamine in the melasma lesions decreased after treatment (P < 0.05).ConclusionThis study revealed alterations in the SSL composition after effective melasma treatment, suggesting a compensatory role for lipids in melasma barrier function. The mechanism involving SSL and the lipid barrier, which influences melasma’s occurrence, needs further elucidation.

Efficacy and safety of mesotherapy with tranexamic acid versus vitamin C in the treatment of melasma: A meta-analysis and systemic review.

The exact pathogenesis of melasma is not yet known, and its treatment remains challenging. Mesotherapy with tranexamic acid (TXA) and vitamin C was both reported to have certain effects on melasma. In spite of that several articles have compared the efficacy and safety of the two drugs on melasma, most of them were clinical study with small sample size. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of mesotherapy with TXA versus vitamin C in treating melasma through meta-analysis and systemic review. The authors searched PubMed, Web of Science, Springer, and ScienceDirect for studies that compared mesotherapy with TXA versus vitamin C as a treatment for melasma. Primary outcomes were change in melasma area and severity index (MASI) before and after the treatment. Finally, five studies with a total of 127 patients were included in the systematic review. There was no statistic difference in the change in MASI score between the TXA and vitamin C groups (mean difference, 0.16; 95% CI, -0.79 to 1.11). Mesotherapy with both TXA and vitamin C is safe and effective in the treatment of melasma.

Novel 532-nm Q-switched Nd: YAG laser for the treatment of melasma and rejuvenation: a prospective, randomized controlled comparison with 1,064-nm Q-switched Nd: YAG laser.

Melasma is a common pigmentary and photoaging disorder. Although various treatments, including 1,064-nm Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (QS-Nd: YAG) laser toning, are available for melasma, results are often unsatisfactory. We aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of 532-nm QS-Nd: YAG laser (shortwave toning) in patients with melasma and facial rejuvenation. Fifty-two patients were recruited to receive either 1,064-nm QS-Nd: YAG laser or 532-nm QS-Nd: YAG laser every 2 weeks for 8 sessions and a 2-month follow-up visit in a randomized controlled double-blinded study. The primary outcome measure was the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) score. Dermoscope and high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) were used to assess the improvement of melasma and photoaging. 532-nm QS-Nd: YAG laser achieved significantly higher improvement in the MASI score (P = 0.000). The Dermoscopic melasma score (DMS) displayed significant change and confirmed the improvement. HFUS showed a significant decrease in the thickness of the subepidermal low-echogenic band (SLEB) and increases in dermal thickness and dermal density in both groups (P = 0.000 for all). The rate of very satisfied responses was significantly higher in the 532-nm laser group (P = 0.001). There was no significant difference in the visual analog scale pain assessment score (P = 0.248) and recurrence rate (P = 0.734) between the two groups. 532-nm QS-Nd: YAG laser (shortwave toning) proved to be an effective and safe treatment for melasma and rejuvenation. Shortwave toning was significantly better for pigmentation clearance, while 1,064-nm laser showed better improvement in skin rejuvenation.

Comparison of Efficacy of 5% Tranexamic Acid vs 20% Azelaic Acid in Patients of Melasma

Background: Melasma is a significant cosmetic concern globally, affecting individuals across various ethnic backgrounds, particularly in South Asian populations. The condition's etiology is complex, involving genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors such as sun exposure. Despite numerous treatment options, melasma remains challenging to manage effectively. Recent studies have explored the efficacy of tranexamic acid and azelaic acid, both of which target the melanin synthesis pathway but through different mechanisms. Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of topical 5% tranexamic acid versus 20% azelaic acid in the treatment of melasma, with a focus on changes in the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) scores. Methods: This prospective comparative study was conducted at the Dermatology department of PIMS Hospital, Pakistan, over six months from August 2023 to January 2024. A total of 200 patients with melasma were enrolled and randomly assigned to two groups: Group A received 5% tranexamic acid cream, and Group B received 20% azelaic acid cream, both applied twice daily. Inclusion criteria included men and women aged 18 to 50 years with a diagnosis of melasma for at least six months. Pregnant women, patients with a history of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) or Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE), and those on hormonal therapy were excluded. The primary outcome measure was the change in MASI scores from baseline to the end of the study period. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 25. Results: The study found significant differences in treatment efficacy between the two groups. Group A (tranexamic acid) showed a reduction in MASI scores from 7.94 ± 1.88 at baseline to 5.50 ± 1.61 post-treatment. Group B (azelaic acid) demonstrated a decrease from 8.21 ± 1.96 to 5.89 ± 1.49. The proportion of patients experiencing excellent response was higher in Group A (36.0%) compared to Group B (19.0%), with a statistically significant difference in overall treatment efficacy (P&lt;0.0001). Conclusion: Topical 5% tranexamic acid was more effective than 20% azelaic acid in improving MASI scores in patients with melasma. This study supports the inclusion of tranexamic acid as a preferable treatment option for melasma, offering a promising alternative for those not responding to conventional therapies.

Efficacy and safety of novel topical pigment-correcting regimen with biweekly diamond tip microdermabrasion procedures on facial hyperpigmentation.

Facial hyperpigmentation can negatively affect an individual's emotional and psychosocial well-being. Assess safety and tolerability of a combination of microdermabrasion (DG) procedures using a novel brightening pro-infusion serum (EC-DG) with a targeted at-home treatment regimen in subjects with mild to severe facial hyperpigmentation, including melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and dark spots. This 12-week, open-label study enrolled 18 subjects (Fitzpatrick skin types I-IV) who underwent 6 in-office DG procedures with EC-DG (one procedure administered biweekly), along with daily topical application of a brightening treatment serum and dark spot cream. End points included change from baseline across multiple skin quality attributes and the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI), self-assessment questionnaires, and tolerability assessments. The combination treatment was well tolerated and resulted in significant (p ≤ 0.05) improvements from baseline in radiance, tactile roughness, and moisturization/hydration immediately after the first treatment, in MASI score at day 3, and in overall hyperpigmentation at week 4. Most (94.1%) subjects were satisfied with treatment. DG procedures using EC-DG combined with a targeted at-home skincare regimen are effective and tolerable for treating facial hyperpigmentation across a broad range of skin types.

Efficacy of Oral, Topical, and Intradermal Tranexamic Acid in Patients with Melasma - A Meta-Analysis.

Tranexamic acid (TXA) has recently shown promising results in the treatment of melasma. The objective of this study was to generate statistical evidence on the efficacy of TXA with different routes. We searched studies in PubMed, Cochrane, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Scopus using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 guidelines. A change in melasma area and severity index (MASI)/modified MASI score from the baseline at the end of 8 and 12 weeks was seen. Inverse variance method was used for continuous data to measure standard mean difference (SMD) at a 95% confidence interval (CI). RevMan version 5.4 was used for analysis, and statistical heterogeneity across studies was reported using I2 statistics. P < 0.05 was considered significant. Totally, 28 randomized control trials were included. At 8 weeks, oral TXA showed a significant change in SMD of 1.61, 95% CI 0.44-2.79, P = 0.007; at 12 weeks, oral TXA showed SMD of 2.39, 95% CI 1.42-3.35, P < 0.00001 compared to adjuvant treatment. At 8 weeks, topical TXA did not show a significant change with SMD of -0.05, 95% CI -1.08-0.97, P = 0.92; at 12 weeks, topical TXA did not show a significant change with SMD of 0.66, 95% CI -0.10-1.42, P = 0.09 compared to adjuvant treatment. Similarly, for intradermal TXA at 8 weeks, results were not significant with SMD of 1.21, 95% CI -0.41-2.83, P = 0.14, and at 12 weeks, SMD was -0.55, 95% CI -2.27-1.18, P = 0.54 compared to adjuvant treatment. Tranexamic acid in an oral formulation can be used along with adjuvant treatment for the management of melasma. Data are still required for topical and intradermal routes. Owing to the fact that our included studies had a lot of heterogeneity, more research is needed along with addressing the adverse effects of tranexamic acid as well as its variation in different skin colors.

The Effect of Melasma on the Quality of Life in People with Darker Skin Types Living in Durban, South Africa.

Melasma is a common skin disorder of acquired hyperpigmentation that appears commonly on the face. Although asymptomatic, melasma causes psychosocial and emotional distress. This study aimed to assess melasma's severity on people with darker skin types, evaluate the effects of melasma on the quality of life (QoL), and establish QoL predictors in affected individuals. This was a cross-sectional analytic study that enrolled 150 patients from three private dermatology clinics in Durban, South Africa who were diagnosed with melasma. The severity of melasma alongside QoL were measured using a melasma area and severity index (MASI) score and melasma quality of life scale (MELASQoL), respectively. The associations among factors and QoL were explored using multivariable methods and stepwise regression analysis. p-values less than 0.05 were considered significant. Enrolled patients were predominantly females (95%), of which 76% were of black African ethnicity, 9% were of Indian ethnicity, and 15% had mixed ancestry, with an average age of 47.30 years. Family history revealed that 61% had no prior melasma cases, while 39% had affected relatives, most commonly mothers (41%). The cheeks were the most common site for melasma. MASI score of Masi (β = 0.209, t = 2.628, p < 0.001), the involvement of cheeks (β = -0.268, t = -3.405, p < 0.001), level of education (β = -0.159, t = -2.029, p = 0.044), and being menopausal (β = -0.161, t = -2.027, p = 0.045) were found to be predictors of QoL. A regression model was created to forecast MELASQoL using these four predictors. This equation's significance lies in its ability to enable the remote assessment of MELASQoL based on these four variables. It offers a valuable tool for researchers and medical professionals to quantitatively and objectively evaluate the impact of melasma on an individual's quality of life.

Comparative Efficacy of Chemical Peeling Agents in the Treatment of Melasma.

Melasma is a complex skin disorder characterized by brown or dark patches, primarily affecting facial areas. Despite numerous treatment options, the effective management of melasma remains challenging. This study aims to fill a gap in the literature by rigorously comparing the effectiveness of three prevalent chemical peeling agents, 15% trichloroacetic acid (TCA), 15% phenol, and 2% glycolic acid, in treating melasma. A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving patients who were clinically diagnosed with melasma. Participants were divided into three groups, each receiving one of the chemical peeling treatments. The primary measure of efficacy was the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) score, recorded before and after the treatment series. Side effects were also documented and analyzed. Preliminary findings suggest a significant reduction in MASI scores in the group treated with 15% TCA peel. The average MASI score reduction was 8.5 points for the TCA group, 6.0 points for the phenol group, and 5.2 points for the glycolic acid group. Side effects such as redness and mild irritation were noted but were least prevalent in the TCA group. Our study indicates that 15% TCA peel is not only effective but also comparatively safer in treating melasma. It shows a more rapid and significant improvement in reducing melasma symptoms than 15% phenol and 2% glycolic acid peels. However, further research is warranted to validate these findings over a larger population.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of microneedling with tranexamic acid in comparison with microneedling with vitamin C in the treatment of melasma: A prospective and single-blind clinical trial.

Melasma is a common skin condition. Microneedling acts as a dermal delivery system that facilitates the penetration of lightening agents such as vitamin C and tranexamic acid (TXA) into the deeper layers of the skin. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effectiveness of microneedling with TXA with microneedling and vitamin C in treating melasma. In patients with melasma, microneedling was performed at 2-3 mm depth. During that, TXA and vitamin C were poured on the skin of each side of the face, and then each ampoule was soaked for 15 min. This method was performed three times in 2-week intervals, and the results were compared by measuring the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) score before, during, and 2 months after the completion of the treatment. The average MASI score in the baseline in the TXA group was 4.61, and in the vitamin C group was 4.58. The average MASI score in the patients treated with TXA in the last treatment session was 2.40, and the group treated with vitamin C was 2.44. The study results showed that the treatment was effective in both groups based on MASI score. Although there was a difference between the responses of the two groups, it was not significant. Microneedling with vitamin C and TXA is a safe and effective treatment option without side effects for treating melasma.

Comparative Study of Combination of Oral Tranexamic Acid With Modified Kligman's Formula Versus Oral Tranexamic Acid With Azelaic Acid 15% in the Treatment of Melasma.

Background Melasma is a persistent skin condition affecting individuals of Asian, African, and Hispanic backgrounds. It causes dark patches on sun-exposed areas of the face. The exact causes are unclear, but UV light and hormonal factors play a role. Melasma significantly impacts physical appearance and quality of life, causing emotional and social distress. Objective The objective was to compare the efficacy of a combination of oral tranexamic acid and modified Kligman's formula vs. oral tranexamic acid and 15% azelaic acid. Material and methods This two-year interventional study occurred at the Outpatient Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy in Sawangi, Maharashtra. It included male and female patients aged 18-50 with melasma seeking treatment. Ethical approval was obtained, and data collection involved medical histories, skin examinations, and calculating the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI). Results The study found no significant association between age groups and subject distribution in Groups A and B. Significant differences were observed in MASI scores within each group over time. There was a significant difference in mean MASI scores between Group A and Group B at the eight-week mark. A burning sensation was significantly associated with the groups, while no significant association was found for erythema. Conclusion This study concludes that combining oral tranexamic acid with a modified Kligman's formula is more effective in treating melasma than combining oral tranexamic acid with azelaic acid 15%.

A comparative study between the use of the combination of trichloroacetic acid peeling with hydroquinone and hydroquinone alone in patients with melasma

Background: Melasma is a common acquired pigmentary disorder that is aesthetically displeasing. Kligman’s and Modified Kligman’s formula using topical steroids, hydroquinone and retinoids, and various other depigmenting agents is being widely used all over for melasma with varying results. Chemical peeling is newly added to the therapeutic armamentarium and is showing encouraging results worldwide in patients with melasma. However, comparative studies are lacking in abundance in our part of the world. Aims and Objectives: To determine if serial trichloroacetic acid peels provide additional benefits when combined with time-tested topical therapy with hydroquinone 4% in patients with melasma. Materials and Methods: Fifty melasma patients were divided into two groups of 25 each. One group received serial trichloroacetic acid peel combined with topical hydroquinone 4%. The other group only received topical hydroquinone 4% cream. The results were evaluated by a clinical investigator both subjectively and with photographs taken at baseline, 12 weeks, and 21 weeks. For clinical evaluation, the melasma area and severity index (MASI) was used. Results: A significant decrease in MASI score from baseline to 21 weeks was observed in both groups (P&lt;0.001). The group receiving the trichloroacetic acid peel 20% showed a trend toward more rapid and greater improvement, with statistically significant results (P&lt;0.001). Only a few side effects were observed in the peel group. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that serial trichloroacetic acid peels provide an additional effect to a topical regimen of 4% hydroquinone cream for treating melasma in Fitzpatrick skin types III and above if used judiciously and under supervision. It demonstrates that superficial chemical peels can be used as an adjunct with better efficacy to treat patients with melasma.

Comparative Study of 35% Glycolic Acid (GA) Peel versus 15% Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) in Patients Primed with 4% Hydroquinone and Sun Block for the Treatment of Melasma

Objective: To compare the effects of 35% Glycolic acid (GA) peel versus 15% Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) in patients primed with 4% Hydroquinone and sunblock for Melasma treatment.&#x0D; Study Design: Quasi-experimental stud.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: Department of Dermatology, Combined Military Hospital, Jhelum Pakistan, from Jul to Nov 2020.&#x0D; Methodology: Forty-eight melasma patients were included and divided randomly into two groups; Group-A patients were treated with 15%Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA), while Group-B patients were treated with 35% Glycolic Acid (GA). Peeling was performed fortnightly in 4 sessions. Melasma area and severity index (MASI) scoring was calculated before and after peeling.&#x0D; Results: In our study, we found that pre-treatment MASI score in Group-A Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) was 9.25±3.11 and in Group-B Glycolic Acid(GA), the pre-treatment MASI was 18.42±7.24, (p&lt;0.001). The post-treatment MASI score in Group- A (TCA) was found to be 4.52±2.77and in Group-B (GA), it was 8.67±4.30, (p&lt;0.001). TCA was associated with more burning, frosting, and skin cracking, while Glycolic Acid (GA) was associated with a scale of no to mild pain and mild burning.&#x0D; Conclusion: Both the peeling agents, 35% Glycolic Acid (GA) peel and 15%Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA), in patients primed with 4% Hydroquinone and sunblock, are effective in reducing MASI scores. However, TCA showed better results.

Comparison of the efficacy and safety of picosecond Nd:YAG laser (1,064 nm), picosecond alexandrite laser (755 nm) and 2% hydroquinone cream in the treatment of melasma: A randomized, controlled, assessor-blinded trial.

Increasing numbers of studies demonstrated that picosecond lasers (Picos) were effective and safe for melasma. However, A limited number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding Picos contribute to a modest level of evidence. Topical hydroquinone (HQ) remains to be the first-line therapy. To compare the efficacy and safety of non-fractional picosecond Nd:YAG laser (PSNYL), non-fractional picosecond alexandrite laser (PSAL), and 2% HQ cream in the treatment of melasma. Sixty melasma patients with Fitzpatrick skin types (FST) III-IV were randomly assigned to the PSNY, PSAL, and HQ groups at a 1:1:1 ratio. Patients in PSNYL and PSAL groups received 3 laser sessions at 4-week intervals. The 2% HQ cream was applied twice daily for 12 weeks in patients of the HQ group. The primary outcome, the melasma area and severity index (MASI) score, was evaluated at weeks 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24. The patient assessment score by quartile rating scale was rated at weeks 12, 16, 20, and 24. Fifty-nine (98.3%) subjects were included in the analysis. Each group showed significant change from baseline in MASI scores from week 4 to week 24. The MASI score in the PSNYL group showed the greatest reduction compared to the PSAL group (p = 0.016) and HQ group (p = 0.018). The PSAL group demonstrated comparable MASI improvement as the HQ group (p = 0.998). The PSNYL group had the highest patient assessment score, followed by the PSAL group and then the HQ group, although only the differences between PSNYL and HQ groups at weeks 12 and 16 were significant. Four patients (6.8%) experienced recurrence. Other unanticipated events were transient and subsided after 1 week to 6 months. The efficacy of non-fractional PSNYL was superior to that of non-fractional PSAL, which was not inferior to 2% HQ, thus non-fractional Picos providing an alternative for melasma patients with FSTs III-IV. The safety profiles of PSNYL, PSAL, and 2% HQ cream were similar. https://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojen.aspx?proj=130994, ChiCTR2100050089.

Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of A New Pigment Correction Cosmetic Protocol in Caucasian Women with Melasma

Melasma is one of the most prevalent acquired pigmentation disorders, especially among women due to its hormonal background. There is a wide variety of therapeutic alternatives available for its treatment given its multifactorial origin and complexity. Cosmetic protocols based on depigmenting agents remain one of the cornerstones of melasma treatment. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new cosmetic pigment correction protocol in the treatment of melasma in Caucasian women. Methods: A single-blind, prospective, single-center study was conducted in 20 women between 25 and 65 years of age, phototypes II-IV with mildmoderate facial melasma. For 90 days patients applied a sunscreen and moisturizing cream in the morning and a pigment correction protocol at night consisting of a skin retinization regime combining two formulations with Retinsphere® technology. (Neoretin DC Ultra emulsion and Neoretin DC transition cream). Treatment results were evaluated by clinical assessment, Observ® photography and non-invasive instrumental measurements such as the erythema and melanin index by Mexameter. The Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) were recorded, and patients completed both a quality of life questionnaire (MELASQoL) and a subjective evaluation. Results: MASI score was significantly reduced at all study visits, with a significant reduction in the area and severity of melasma already observed at 30 days and a 48% reduction at the end of treatment. In the opinion of the investigator and patients, some degree of improvement was reported in 95% of patients at the end of treatment and neither patients nor the investigator reported worsening of melasma at the end of treatment as compared to baseline. The degree of melasma improvement observed by patients increased progressively and significantly from day 45 onwards, reaching an improvement of almost 70% at the end of the treatment. The adverse effects evaluated, (peeling, erythema, burning, tightness, irritation, and itching) increased gradually, being higher at T45 and T60, coinciding with the greater frequency of application of the formulations. Effects were however transient and in no case reached statistical significance or required treatment discontinuation. Conclusion: The cosmetic pigment correction protocol under study appears to be an effective therapeutic option for the treatment of melasma. The retinization regime, which consisted in the gradual application of the more powerful formulation alternated with a transition formulation, made it possible to achieve both efficacy and good tolerability to the therapeutic regimen.

Clinical Evaluation of Efficacy and Tolerability of Oral Tranexamic Acid in Comparison with Hydroquinone plus Sunscreen in Subjects with Melasma: A Single Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial Study

Background: Melasma is a common chronic acquired hyper pigmentary disorder of skin, particularly among Asian and Hispanics. Females are more affected than men. It has a significant impact on appearance, causing psychosocial and emotional distress and reducing the quality of life of the affected individual. Tranexamic acid (TA) can be used to treat melasma. Objectives: To compare the efficacy of oral Tranexamic acid and Hydroquinone (HQ) plus sunscreen in the treatment of melasma. Methods: It was prospective, interventional clinical trial conducted among 150 Bangladeshi melasma patients visiting the Dermatology and Venereology OPD of DMCH between January 2016 and June 2017. Patients were divided randomly into two groups, 75 in each, by lottery method. First group (Group A) was treated with 4% Hydroquinone plus sunscreen (regular) daily for 12 weeks and second group (Group B) was treated with Tranexamic acid 250mg twice a day for 12 weeks. Response was evaluated on the basis of Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) and Melasma Quality of Life (MELASQoL) Questionnaire. The mean scores of both variables were compared between both groups. Results: Epidermal melasma was comparatively quicker and better responded to the treatment than dermal or mixed variants. The mean MASI and mean MELASQoL scores between both groups were not significantly different at 4 weeks (p&gt;0.05) but was significantly effective in Group B at 8 and 12 weeks (p&lt;0.05). The mean MASI scores of Group A (HQ &amp; sunscreen) were 11.43±1.82, 9.98±1.99 and 8.94±2.16 at 4, 8 and 12 weeks respectively. The mean MASI scores of Group B (TA) were 11.34±1.92, 9.30+2.07 and 7.19±2.16 at 4, 8 and 12 weeks respectively. Similarly, the mean MELASQoL scores of Group A (HQ &amp; sunscreen) were 34.95±6.61, 29.40±6.60 and 25.87±7.19 at 4, 8 and 12 weeks respectively. The mean MELASQoL scores of Group B (TA) were 33.12±6.40, 26.19±6.43 and 20.63±6.70 at 4, 8 and 12 weeks respectively. Conclusion: Oral Tranexamic acid is more ..

Can Microneedle Fractional Radiofrequency System Treatment Impair the Skin Barrier Function in Chinese Patients? A Prospective Clinical Trial

IntroductionFacial cosmetic conditions can manifest as post-inflammatory erythema, scars, pigmentation, enlarged pores, skin laxity, and photoaging. The microneedle fractional radiofrequency system (MFRS) is a new device that combines radiofrequency and microneedles and has been widely used for skin rejuvenation. Since MFRS is an invasive technique, this study aimed to evaluate whether the skin barrier functions might be impaired by this treatment, revealed by skin sensitivity and exacerbation of melasma.MethodsTwenty patients with Fitzpatrick grades III–IV facial conditions (skin laxity with melasma, n = 9; post-inflammatory erythema and scars, n = 5; and enlarged pores, n = 6) and treated with MFRS were enrolled. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL, using Ultrascan UC22), skin sensitivity (ten-item Sensitive Scale, SS-10), melanin index (MI), melasma area and severity index (MASI), red areas (VISIA), and thickness and density of the epidermis and dermis on ultrasonography were compared between baseline and 6 months after all treatment sessions.ResultsTwenty patients completed a 6-month follow-up after two MFRS treatments. During days 1–3 post-treatment, the TEWL values gradually increased to the peak and decreased to baseline levels (BD) on day 7. There was no significant difference in TEWL compared with baseline in month (M) 1, M3, and M6. There were no significant changes in the thickness and density of the epidermis. Although the thickness and density of the dermis increased, there was no significant difference compared to baseline. There was no significant difference in the MI, MASI, and SS-10 score before and after MFRS treatment. After treatment with MFRS, the red area and scarring reduced significantly (p < .01), and no significant difference was observed in other patients.ConclusionsMFRS is a safe and effective treatment for facial cosmetic conditions. The skin barrier function is not impaired by MFRS treatment, since it does not cause skin sensitivity or melasma exacerbation.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13555-022-00807-w.

Pigmentation control in pregnancy-induced melasma: Clinical assessment of a non-hydroquinone, non-retinol pigment-correcting serum.

Melasma is an acquired disorder that results in irregular brown patches on the skin that can occur due to hormonal changes. Although pregnancy-induced melasma is usually temporary, it can become a chronic condition, with significant negative impact on quality of life (QoL). Determine the efficacy and tolerability of a topical, non-hydroquinone, non-retinol pigment-correcting serum (LYT2) for the treatment of pregnancy-induced melasma. This 12-week, single-center clinical trial enrolled 34 non-pregnant women who developed mild to severe facial melasma following a previous pregnancy (mean age, 42 years). LYT2 was applied twice daily to facial skin for 12 weeks in addition to a basic skincare regimen. Outcomes included changes from baseline in skin physiology parameters, such as brightness (L*), using objective digital image analysis, investigator-rated Overall Hyperpigmentation scale, Global Improvement, and Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI), as well as subject-assessed Melasma Quality of Life Scale. Subjects also completed a questionnaire on self-perceived efficacy and attributes of the study product. Tolerability was assessed by the investigators (erythema, scaling, and edema) and subjects (burning/stinging and itching). Clinical assessments were conducted at baseline and Weeks 4, 8, and 12. LYT2 provided statistically significant reductions in overall hyperpigmentation scores as early as Week 4 (-5.8% change from baseline) and continued through Week 12 (-14.6% change from baseline; all p< 0.001). Significant improvements in MASI scores and QoL were also achieved following LYT2 treatment, which was well tolerated. LYT2 represents a new efficacious alternative to hydroquinone-based treatments for pregnancy-induced melasma.

Single and combined 1064 nm Q-switched Nd: YAG laser therapy in melasma: A meta-analysis.

This article attempted to describe the efficacy and safety of 1064QNYL in combination with other treatments for refractory melasma. Two researchers independently retrieved randomized controlled trials (RCTs) according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Primary outcome was evaluated with MASI and mMASI scores in control group and experiment group. The secondary outcome was evaluated with MI scores. We calculated 95% CI of standardized mean difference (SMD) and heterogeneity of the included literature by Higgins I2 test, and assessed publication bias by Funnel plots, Egger's, and Begg's tests. A total of 12 articles including 322 subjects were analyzed. Experiment group was treated with 1064QNYL combined with single treatment (e.g., PDL, IPL, RF, and TA). Control group was treated with 1064QNYL alone. A greater reduction of Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI)/modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (mMASI) scores were shown in experiment group than that in control group at the end of the treatment (SMD, -0.37; 95% CI -0.70 to -0.04, p=0.03, I2 = 33%). The SMD of MI scores further supported this conclusion by -0.32 (95% CI -0.63 to -0.02, p=0.04, I2 = 27%). As for adverse events (AEs), combined treatment gave rise to more mild burning, stinging, and erythema that resolved spontaneously. Several studies reported focal purpura, punctate leukoderma, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and so on. Combined 1064QNYL treatment was better than single laser treatment, with the highest short-term benefit and long-term follow-up to maintain the effect in favor of combined treatment.

Microneedling and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment for mixed melasma

Background: Melasma, or chloasma, is an acquired pigmentary disorder caused by increased melanin in the epidermal and dermal layers, characterized by brown or gray patches on the face and neck. There are many treatment options available; however, the difficulties in treating melasma are frequent recalcitrants, high recurrence rate, irregularity in treatment, and the tendency of the patients to self-medicate. Case Ilustration: We report a case of mixed melasma treated by microneedling and topical PRP administration. Thirteen weeks following the therapy, the patient showed a favorable response brighter skin and substantial disappearance of brown patches. Discussion: Studies assessing the efficacy of microneedling and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment for melasma are still lacking. However, melasma improvement has been reported in patients treated with microneedling and PRP. In this study, we provided a study of a patient with mixed melasma treated by microneedling and PRP, which showed a favorable improvement. Conclusion: Microneedling and PRP treatment showed a favorable response in a patient with melasma, with substantial disappearance of brown patches and a decrease in MASI (Melasma Area and Severity Index) score. Keywords: microneedling, mixed melasma, platelet-rich plasma

The effectiveness of tomato extract on superoxide dismutase (SOD) and severity degree of patients with melasma.

Melasma is present in 40% of cases in Southeast Asia. The condition is often unresponsive to therapy; treatment has variable success rates, and melasma has high recurrence rates. Lycopene-rich tomato extract is needed to avoid oxidative stress due to ultraviolet rays that cause melasma through the melanogenesis pathway. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an oral tomato extract supplement as an adjuvant for melasma therapy. The study recruited 62 subjects with melasma to a true-experimental clinic with a double-blind, randomized, pre and post-test control design over 12 weeks at the Diponegoro National Hospital, Indonesia. The subjects received an oral tomato extract supplement contains lycopene 30 mg (placebo). All subjects applied topical sunscreen and hydroquinone-4%-cream. Subjects were assessed by superoxide dismutase (SOD) and melasma area and severity index (MASI). Fifty-nine patients completed the research. The serum SOD levels in the treatment group (tomato extract supplementation) were higher than in the control group given the placebo, with delta SOD (P<0.05). The difference in MASI Scores after therapy in the treatment group had a significant decrease compared to the control group, with statistical review results suggesting that the difference was significant (P<0.05). Supplementation of tomato extract as an adjuvant therapy can increase serum SOD levels and improve melasma severity.