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Updated: Nov 29, 2025
Author Spotlight: Non-Surgical Treatment of Melasma– Microneedling with Tranexamic Acid
Published on: January 19, 2024
The Tam formula: A pilot study for a new treatment for melasma
Radhika Srivastava1, Ann M John1, Alison Tam2
1Department of Dermatology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School at 1 World's Fair Drive Somerset, NJ, USA.
Background:
Melasma is a common hyperpigmentation disorder with numerous, but often unsatisfactory treatment options.
Aims:
A pilot study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel topical combination of 12% hydroquinone, 6% kojic acid, and 5% vitamin C cream for melasma.
Patients And Methods:
A pilot study of 6 women with melasma was conducted at an academic dermatology department and a private dermatology practice to evaluate the efficacy of a topical combination of 12% hydroquinone, 6% kojic acid, and 5% vitamin C cream, entitled the "Tam Formula." Two blinded evaluators calculated Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) Scores before and after treatment to evaluate change from baseline, and statistical analysis was performed.
Results:
Treatment with this combination topical cream resulted in an average 63.77 ± 22.10 percent reduction in MASI scores.
Conclusions:
While there is a need for further investigation, this pilot study indicates the Tam Formula may provide an alternative treatment option for melasma.
