Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2025

04:12
Author Spotlight: Non-Surgical Treatment of Melasma– Microneedling with Tranexamic Acid
Published on: January 19, 2024
979
Gingival Depigmentation Using Microneedling Technique With Topical Vitamin C: A Prospective Case Series
Diana Mostafa1, Nader A Alaizari2, Shaden M AlOtaibi3
1Departement of Clinical Periodontology, Alexandria University, Alexandria, EGY.
Cureus
|March 28, 2023
Summary
Microneedling with topical ascorbic acid effectively treats gingival hyperpigmentation. This non-invasive technique significantly reduced melanin indices, with some patients achieving complete depigmentation.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Dermatology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Gingival pigmentation, primarily physiological melanin production, can be a cosmetic concern.
- Existing treatments for gingival hyperpigmentation may be invasive or less effective.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of microneedling combined with topical ascorbic acid for treating gingival hyperpigmentation.
- To assess changes in oral pigmentation indices post-treatment.
Main Methods:
- A case-series study involving 16 participants with gingival hyperpigmentation.
- Microneedling procedure using a Dermapen, followed by topical ascorbic acid application.
- Assessment of Dummett oral pigmentation index (DOPI) and Hedin melanin index (HMI) scores pre- and post-treatment.
Main Results:
- All participants showed noticeable improvement in gingival pigmentation.
- Seven patients achieved complete depigmentation.
- Statistically significant reductions in both DOPI (mean difference 1.8) and HMI (mean difference 3.1) scores were observed post-treatment.
Conclusions:
- Microneedling with topical ascorbic acid is a novel and effective non-invasive treatment for gingival hyperpigmentation.
- The combined approach offers a safe and efficient method for improving gingival aesthetics.

