Efficacy and safety of a new superficial chemical peel using alpha-hydroxy acid, vitamin C and oxygen for melasma.
BACKGROUND
Facial skin pigmentary disorders can be resistant to conventional treatment. Superficial chemical peel is an effective and safe treatment in pigmentary problems including melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and aging spots.


OBJECTIVE
To assess the efficacy and safety of new superficial chemical peel (Melasma peel, Theraderm®), this is composed of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHAs), vitamin C and oxygen for melasma.


METHODS
Twenty-five ethnic Korean patients (Fitzpatrick skin phototypes IV and V) with moderate to severe melasma were enrolled. The patients underwent four treatments at 1-2-week intervals for 8 weeks. Clinical improvement was evaluated on a 5-point scale by participants and by the same dermatologist, and adverse effects were checked during the study.


RESULTS
Improvement in the degree of pigmentation, pores, and evenness were noted. Significant clinical improvement of hyperpigmentation was evident. No adverse effects were reported.


CONCLUSIONS
New superficial chemical peel using AHAs, vitamin C and oxygen is an effective and very safe treatment for melasma.
Department of Dermatology, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea. susini@naver.com
Won-Serk
WS
Kim
D000328:Adult; D001205:Ascorbic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D044466:Asian People; D002615:Chemexfoliation / Q000379:methods*; D005145:Face; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006880:Hydroxy Acids / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D008297:Male; D008548:Melanosis / Q000628:therapy*; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D056910:Republic of Korea
D006880:Hydroxy Acids; D001205:Ascorbic Acid