Mequinol 2%/tretinoin 0.01% topical solution for the treatment of melasma in men: a case series and review of the literature

Abstract

Melasma is a common hyperpigmentation disorder that typically affects women, though up to 10% of white individuals seeking treatment for melasma are men. Melasma can be a source of embarrassment for men because of its association with women and pregnancy. We performed a case series assessing the use of mequinol 2%/ tretinoin 0.01% topical solution in 5 men with melasma. Four of 5 patients achieved complete clearance of melasma at 12 weeks, and 1 patient showed moderate improvement. Side effects were minimal and consisted of stinging in one patient. All patients maintained results at the 16-week follow-up visit. Mequinol 2%/tretinoin 0.01% topical solution was an effective and well-tolerated treatment of melasma in men. The vehicle resulted in good compliance and minimal adverse effects in patients. This is the first report describing the use of mequinol 2%/tretinoin 0.01% topical solution for the treatment of melasma in men; there are no reports in women.