Melasma Treatments

Topical Creams & Oral Tranexamic Acid

1. General Information and Description

Melasma is a chronic pigmentation condition characterised by symmetrical brown or greyish patches, most commonly on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin. It is influenced by sun exposure, hormones, genetics, and skin sensitivity.

Effective melasma management focuses on controlling pigment production, preventing recurrence, and maintaining long-term skin stability. Treatment often involves a combination of topical depigmenting creams and oral tranexamic acid, prescribed based on individual skin needs.

2. How It Works

Topical Creams
Prescription topical creams work by suppressing melanin production, accelerating skin cell turnover, and reducing pigment deposition in the skin. These formulations may include pigment inhibitors, exfoliating agents, and anti-inflammatory ingredients to gradually lighten melasma and even out skin tone.

Oral Tranexamic Acid
Tranexamic acid helps reduce abnormal pigmentation by inhibiting pathways involved in melanin production and vascular factors that contribute to melasma. Taken orally at low doses under medical supervision, it supports more stable, long-term improvement when combined with topical care and sun protection.

3. What to Expect & When Results Appear

With topical treatments, gradual brightening is typically seen over 6–12 weeks with consistent use. Mild dryness or sensitivity may occur initially and is managed with appropriate skincare adjustments.

With oral tranexamic acid, improvement in pigmentation is usually observed over several weeks to months. Treatment duration is carefully tailored, and regular review ensures safety and optimal results.

Sun protection is essential throughout treatment to maintain results and reduce recurrence.

4. Who Is a Good Candidate

Melasma treatment may be suitable for individuals who:

• Have persistent or recurrent facial pigmentation

• Notice pigmentation worsened by sun exposure or hormonal changes

• Have not achieved sufficient improvement with over-the-counter products

• Prefer a medically guided, long-term management approach

• Are committed to consistent sun protection and skincare