Journal of Dermatology and Dermatologic Diseases

Topical Melasma Treatments

Abstract

Jennifer Linder

Known as the “pregnancy mask,” over six million Americans are impacted by hormonally induced melasma every year, making it one of the most common skin concerns in the United States. Affecting female patients in 90% of cases, melasma appears in large, dense patches of pigmentation, usually on the malar, mandibular and centrofacial areas of the face. Although melasma can affect anyone, it tends to affect women with a Fitzpatrick skin type of III-VI living in areas of intense Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. By understanding the melanogenesis pathway, and utilizing diagnostic tools like the MASI scale and the Wood’s Lamp, clinicians can identify this frustrating condition and proceed with a progressive treatment approach. Addressing melasma using a variety of pigment-inhibiting and correcting ingredients, as well as gentle exfoliation methods, in both daily care regimens and professional treatments will ultimately lead to the desired results the clinician and patient intend to achieve.