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Author Spotlight: Non-Surgical Treatment of Melasma– Microneedling with Tranexamic Acid
Published on: January 19, 2024
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Microneedling-assisted topical tranexamic acid solution versus 4% hydroquinone for treating melasma: A split-face
Mohamed S Zaky1, Zakaria M Obaid1, Eman A Khalil1
1Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University.
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology
|September 15, 2021
Summary
Topical tranexamic acid with microneedling and hydroquinone effectively treat melasma. Both treatments showed significant melasma reduction, with hydroquinone offering slightly higher subject satisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cosmetic Science
Background:
- Melasma, a common hyperpigmentary disorder, often affects females.
- Tranexamic acid (TA) shows promise for melasma treatment, alone or with other therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare topical tranexamic acid (TA) after microneedling with topical hydroquinone (HQ) 4% for melasma treatment efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Fifty patients were randomized into two groups: Group A (topical HQ 4% nightly) and Group B (microneedling + topical TA every other week).
- Treatment duration was eight weeks.
Main Results:
- Both groups showed statistically significant reduction in modified MASI scores (p < 0.001).
- Group A (HQ) showed a 54.8% decrease in MASI score.
- Group B (TA + microneedling) showed a 57.4% decrease in MASI score.
Conclusions:
- Both topical HQ and TA with microneedling are safe and effective for melasma.
- Topical HQ resulted in slightly higher subject and rater satisfaction with minimal side effects.

