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Melasma (Chloasma; Pregnancy Mask): Why is it so difficult to treat ?

  • understanding of the pathogenesis of melasma (chloasma, pregnancy mask).
  • Although triggering factors (ultraviolet light, pregnancy, oral contraceptives) and immunohistochemical properties of melasma are well known, molecular and genetic mechanisms which are involved a poorly understood.
  • Scientific Consensus says the following about melasma: Melasma is not a purely melanocytic problem but a dysfunctioning “systems biology”, which affects the complex interaction of keratinocytes, melanocytes, fibroblasts and dermal blood vessels; this leads to hyperpigmentation.
  • Targeting melanin synthesis by melanocytes is not enough to lighten melasma. Indeed, treatment with hydroquinone only often yields disappointing results. The combination of hydroquinone, a steroid and tretinoin only partially improves efficacy (refractory melasma) but prevent melasma from coming back.

 

 

Source of Information: Goh BK. The Science Behind Pigmentary Disorders.  NSC Dermatology Update 2012, Singapore

 

 

Source of information: here