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Author Spotlight: Non-Surgical Treatment of Melasma– Microneedling with Tranexamic Acid
Published on: January 19, 2024
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Microbial dysbiosis in melasma through community profiling.
Yugandhar Reddy B S1, Chandraprabha Doraiswamy1, Deepshikha Singh2
1Unilever Research & Development, Bangalore, India.
Frontiers in Microbiomes
|March 19, 2026
Summary
Skin microbiome alterations are linked to melasma, a hyperpigmentary condition. This study found significant differences in microbial communities between melasma lesions and surrounding skin, correlating with disease severity.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
- Genomics
Background:
- The skin microbiome plays a crucial role in health and disease, with recent research highlighting its involvement in various skin pathologies.
- Melasma, a common hyperpigmentary condition, has a poorly understood pathogenesis, prompting investigation into the role of the skin microbiome.
- Microbial dysbiosis is increasingly implicated in dermatological disorders, necessitating a deeper understanding of its impact on conditions like melasma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the microbial dysbiosis in melasma subjects.
- To investigate the impact of microbial alterations on skin microbial community structure in melasma.
- To explore the relationship between skin microbiome changes and melasma clinical parameters.
Main Methods:
- 16S rRNA sequencing was employed for deep characterization of the skin microbiome on the human face.
- Analysis included identifying microbial genera, comparing lesional and peri-lesional areas, and assessing alpha diversity.
- Clinical assessment utilized biophysical, biochemical, and biomarker-based measures, including modified MASI (mMASI) scoring for melasma severity.
Main Results:
- Significant differences were observed in the skin microbiome between lesional and peri-lesional areas of melasma subjects.
- A decrease in alpha diversity and interconnections within the microbial community was noted in melasma lesions compared to peri-lesional areas.
- Microbiome differences correlated with clinical parameters, including melasma severity (mMASI scores), and changes in redox, inflammation, and barrier properties.
Conclusions:
- The study confirms significant differences in the skin microbiome between lesional and peri-lesional areas in melasma.
- Observed microbiome changes correlate with clinical parameters, suggesting a role in melasma pathogenesis.
- These findings open avenues for further research into host-microbiome interactions and potential management strategies for melasma.
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