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Review
. 2024 Sep;25(5):717-733.
doi: 10.1007/s40257-024-00863-2. Epub 2024 Jun 19.

An Update on New and Existing Treatments for the Management of Melasma

Christian Gan  1 , Michelle Rodrigues  2   3   4
Affiliations
Review

An Update on New and Existing Treatments for the Management of Melasma

Christian Gan et al. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2024 Sep.

Abstract

Melasma is a chronic, acquired disorder of focal hypermelanosis that carries significant psychosocial impact and is challenging for both the patient and the treating practitioner to manage in the medium to long term. Multiple treatments have been explored, often in combination given the many aetiological factors involved in its pathogenesis. Therapeutic discoveries to treat melasma are a focal topic in the literature and include a range of modalities, with recent developments including updates on visible light photoprotection, non-hydroquinone depigmenting agents, oral tranexamic acid, chemical peels, and laser and energy-based device therapy for melasma. It is increasingly important yet challenging to remain up-to-date on the arsenal of treatments available for melasma to find an efficacious and well-tolerated option for our patients.

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Conflict of interest statement

Michelle Rodrigues has provided paid lectures for Cynosure and La Roche Posay, as well as Medical Advisory for SkinCeuticals and L’Oreal Group. Christian Gan has no conflict of interest to declare that may be relevant to the contents of this article.

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