How is Melasma treated?
If Melasma is not severe, patients may simply apply a camouflage make-up to cover the affected areas. When medications are prescribed, the treatment usually involves the topical application of a “hydroquinone” preparation, possibly in combination with tretinoin (the active ingredient in Retin A), a topical steroid, and perhaps a hydroxy acid, along with a high SFP sunscreen. Medium to deep facial peels can also be tried, although the results are inconsistent, and the condition may in fact worsen as a result of their application. Cryotherapy, dermabrasion, and laser therapy are other potential therapeutic modalities, although their role has yet to be fully established.
