Monocentric prospective study for assessing the efficacy and tolerability of a cosmeceutical formulation in patients with melasma

Introduction: Melasma is a common pigmentary condition that affects exposed body areas, especially in the frontal and malar regions. Hydroquinone is an effective active principle in the treatment of hyperpigmentation, however, due to issues linked to its tolerability, many studies are being conducted aimed at developing alternative therapies with equivalent effectiveness.
Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a cosmeceutical formulation containing ellagic acid, hydroxyphenoxy propionic acid, yeast extract and salicylic acid in Brazilian patients with mild to moderate melasma.
Methods: Forty patients with mild to moderate melasma on the face used the cosmeceutical twice daily, combined with sunscreen for 90 days. Subjective assessments of efficacy and tolerability were carried out. Measurements of the MASI grade and the application of the MELASQoL-BP questionnaire were also performed. The evaluation of the skin's brightness and the colorimetric characteristics were obtained by colorimetry.
Results: After 90 days of treatment, a significant improvement could be observed in the clinical and colorimetric parameters evaluated, and in the quality of life questionnaire. In addition, the MASI score improved by 43%. The treatment was effective without causing adverse events.
Conclusions: The evaluated cosmeceutical formulation was proven as an effective alternative to hydroquinone for the treatment of melasma, with excellent cutaneous tolerability profile.

Keywords: HYPERPIGMENTATION; MELANOSIS; BLEACHING AGENTS