Glycolic Acid Peels Versus Amino Fruit Acid Peels in the Treatment of Melasma

Melasma is an acquired pigmentary disorder characterized by symmetrical hyperpigmented macules on the face. Its pathogenesis is complex and involves the interplay of various factors such as genetic predisposition, ultraviolet radiation, hormonal factors, and drugs. An insight into the pathogenesis is important to devise treatment modalities that accurately target the disease process and prevent relapses. Hydroquinone remains the gold standard of treatment though many newer drugs, especially plant extracts, have been developed in the last few years. In this article, we review the pathogenetic factors involved in melasma. We also describe the newer treatment options available and their efficacy. We carried out a PubMed search using the following terms “melasma, pathogenesis, etiology, diagnosis, treatment” and have included data of the last few years.

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“…It decreased significantly in both groups; adverse effects were less with amino fruit acid peels. [48]…”

Section: Newer Chemical Peelsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Melasma update

Arora

Garg

Sonthalia

et al. 2014

Indian Dermatol Online J

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“…[46] In a recent study on light-skinned patients, the amino fruit acid peels were found to be as effective as the GA peels and better tolerated. [47] However, there are no studies on dark-skinned patients to substantiate this finding.…”

Section: Chemical Peels For Melasma In Dark Skinmentioning

confidence: 99%

Chemical peels for melasma in dark-skinned patients

Sarkar

Bansal

Garg

2012

J Cutan Aesthet Surg

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Melasma is a common disorder of hyperpigmentation, which has a severe impact on the quality of life. Inspite of tremendous research, the treatment remains frustrating both to the patient and the treating physician. Dark skin types (Fitzpatrick types IV to VI) are especially difficult to treat owing to the increased risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). The treatment ranges from a variety of easily applied topical therapies to agents like lasers and chemical peels. Peels are a well-known modality of treatment for melasma, having shown promising results in many clinical trials. However, in darker races, the choice of the peeling agent becomes relatively limited; so, there is the need for priming agents and additional maintenance peels. Although a number of new agents have come up, there is little published evidence supporting their use in day-to -day practice. The traditional glycolic peels prove to be the best both in terms of safety as well as efficacy. Lactic acid peels being relatively inexpensive and having shown equally good results in a few studies, definitely need further experimentation. We also recommend the use of a new peeling agent, the easy phytic solution, which does not require neutralisation unlike the traditional alpha-hydroxy peels. The choice of peeling agent, the peel concentration as well as the frequency and duration of peels are all important to achieve optimum results.

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“…51 Both sides showed a statistically significant decrease in MASI 3 and 6 months from baseline (p < 0.05). They are carboxylated amino acids that have been found to be potent antioxidants and promising in treating photopigmentation.…”

Section: Chemical Peelsmentioning

confidence: 86%