How to Remove Melasma
Aug 03, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Melasma is a common pigmentary skin disorder affecting the facial area, predominantly occurring in young to middle-aged women and negatively impacting their self-confidence and quality of life. Treatment options include injectable agents for skin lightening and melasma reduction—such as glutathione or tranexamic acid injections—as well as oral medications including vitamin C, vitamin E, and tranexamic acid tablets or capsules. Alternatively, treatment based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory may be employed, involving syndrome differentiation and the use of herbal formulas that promote blood circulation, resolve stasis, soothe the liver, and alleviate pain.
As spring transitions into summer, many individuals—particularly those concerned with appearance—begin noticing various facial pigmented spots, significantly affecting facial aesthetics. To counteract dullness and uneven skin tone, people often resort to cosmetic concealment. But how can melasma be effectively treated?
How to Treat Melasma
Melasma is a common pigmentary dermatosis affecting the face, predominantly seen in women of childbearing and middle age, and often undermining their confidence and quality of life. Treatment options include injectable agents such as glutathione or tranexamic acid for skin brightening and lightening. Oral medications may include vitamin C, vitamin E, and tranexamic acid capsules.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches may also be employed, based on syndrome differentiation and treatment principles—such as promoting blood circulation, resolving stasis, soothing the liver, and alleviating pain—using herbal formulations like Xue Fu Zhu Yu Capsules, Xiao Yao Wan (Free-and-Easy Wanderer Pills), and Chai Hu Shu Gan San (Bupleurum Liver-Soothing Powder). Topically, hydroquinone cream and compound arbutin cream may be applied. Crucially, hydroquinone cream must never be applied to normal skin surrounding melasma lesions, as this may cause irreversible hypopigmentation.
Patients with access to specialized care may also consider chemical peels or laser therapy. However, both modalities carry inherent risks; improper application may exacerbate post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. In daily life, patients should consume ample vegetables and light, nutritious meals—especially foods rich in vitamin C—and maintain a positive mood and high-quality sleep. We hope this information proves helpful!
