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Updated: Jul 28, 2026
Author Spotlight: Non-Surgical Treatment of Melasma– Microneedling with Tranexamic Acid
Published on: January 19, 2024
Comparative Efficacy of Tranexamic Acid and Vitamin C with Microneedling: A Split-Face Study in Melasma Management
Sabiha Quazi1, Khalid Khan2, Mayur Dudhe1
1Department of Dermatology, Datta Meghe Medical College (DMMC), Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research (DMIHER), Nagpur, Maharashtra, India.
Background:
Melasma is a common pigmentary disorder, primarily affecting women with Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI. It presents as symmetric hyperpigmented macules and patches on the face. While hydroquinone and triple combination creams are standard treatments, tranexamic acid (TXA) and vitamin C delivered via microneedling have shown promising results in recent studies.
Objective:
To assess the efficacy and safety of combining TXA or vitamin C with microneedling in treating melasma in females.
Material And Methods:
A prospective, split-face comparative study included ten female patients (20 vertical split faces) with melasma from a tertiary care center. Both sides of the face underwent microneedling with a Dermapen (16-needle cartridge, 1.5 mm length). Pre-microneedling, vitamin C serum was applied on one side, while on the other side, TXA was applied. The same procedure was done three times at 0, 4, and 8 weeks. Statistical analysis employed Chi-square, paired t-test, and unpaired t-test, with significance at P < 0.05.
Results:
Both groups demonstrated significant improvement in mMASI scores and percentage response after treatment.
Conclusion:
TXA and vitamin C combined with microneedling are effective and safe for melasma, offering promising therapeutic outcomes.
