HOME | ARTICLES | EDITORIALS | CASE REPORTS |

Melasma and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) are common disorders of hyperpigmentation of key aesthetic concern. This study assessed the efficacy and tolerability of a serum formulated with lotus sprout extract, tranexamic acid, and niacinamide (LTN serum) for the treatment of melasma and PIH secondary to acne.

Hydroquinone has long served as the gold standard for hyperpigmentation treatment, but safety concerns, regulatory changes, and growing interest in non-hydroquinone therapies have prompted reevaluation of its role in dermatology. This review outlines the clinical use, safety profile, and evolving regulations surrounding hydroquinone, as well as emerging alternatives and combination therapies. We aim to offer an updated review on best practices for depigmenting treatment protocols and highlight ongoing debates on dermatologic safety and efficacy.

Melasma and age spots are among the most persistent and difficult-to-treat forms of hyperpigmentation. While traditional therapies offer some clinical efficacy, they often carry risks of irritation and rebound pigmentation. This study aims to evaluate the therapeutic potential and user tolerability of nanodiamond-zinc oxide (ND-ZnO)-containing skin preparations in improving hyperpigmentation conditions through 11 individual case series and 32 user-reported outcomes.

A new multimodal skin tone correcting serum formulated with b.r.y.t.e.r. (brown, red, and yellow tones with enhanced resurfacing) technology (EV-I) targets brown, red, and yellow dyschromia and acts through 5 pathways of melanin synthesis to reduce pigmentation, resurface and exfoliate skin, and improve overall skin tone.

A new multimodal skin tone correcting serum formulated with b.r.y.t.e.r. (brown, red, and yellow tones with enhanced resurfacing) technology (EV-I) targets brown, red, and yellow dyschromia and acts through 5 pathways of melanin synthesis to reduce pigmentation, resurface and exfoliate skin, and improve overall skin tone.

Visible light (400-700nm) comprises 45% of the sunlight spectrum and can induce both immediate and persistent skin darkening, as well as worsen dyschromia, especially in the skin of color population. In a recent mini-zone study, we demonstrated that iron oxide (FeO)-containing formulations could protect skin from visible light-induced pigmentation in Fitzpatrick skin type (FST) IV individuals, while ultraviolet (UV) protection sunscreen SPF 50+ (sun protection factor) could not. 

 Facial hyperpigmentation, characterized by the excessive production of melanin in the skin, is a prevalent dermatological concern affecting individuals of various ethnic backgrounds.

Pigmentary disorders, particularly hyperpigmentation, disproportionately affect individuals with skin of color and are associated with significant psychosocial burden. Despite their global prevalence, real-time data on public awareness and interest remain limited. Digital tools such as Google Trends offer a novel approach to assessing public interest in dermatologic conditions.

Dyschromia is one of the most common reasons for patients to seek dermatological care, especially among individuals with skin of color. Most cases present as melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH); both are chronic issues requiring long-term treatment. 

Melasma, a symmetric pigmentary disorder, is more prevalent in women and individuals with darker skin tones. Despite its global prevalence, there is a notable gap in the understanding of gender, racial, and Fitzpatrick skin type (FST) representation in melasma clinical trials. We conducted a comprehensive search of the United States (US) National Library of Medicine clinical trials database (ClinicalTrials.gov) on March 2nd, 2024, to identify melasma clinical trials. The aim of this study was to assess the demographic representation of participants enrolled in melasma clinical trials. Out of 56 trials identified, 19 met the inclusion criteria, comprising 614 patients. 

Although drugs are a common cause of hyperpigmentation, the pathogenesis is unclear and varies based on the offending agent. Classic medications associated with hyperpigmentation secondary to increased melanin deposition include tetracyclines, prostaglandins, nicotine, and antimalarial medications. We report the case of a 70-year-old female who developed photodistributed hyperpigmentation due to increased melanin deposition following COVID-19 vaccination.

Many patients with psoriasis suffer from post-inflammatory pigmentary alteration (PIPA), which remains an unmet treatment need. Eruptive lentiginosis (EL) is a rare form of PIPA where multiple dark brown macules arise within a resolving psoriatic plaque. We present a case of a 68-year-old male with a history of chronic plaque psoriasis and prothrombin deficiency, who developed extensive EL following ixekizumab treatment. In addition, this article will discuss the current literature on risk factors, clinical outcomes, and treatments for EL.

Hydroquinone has long served as the gold standard for hyperpigmentation treatment, but safety concerns, regulatory changes, and growing interest in non-hydroquinone therapies have prompted reevaluation of its role in dermatology. This review outlines the clinical use, safety profile, and evolving regulations surrounding hydroquinone, as well as emerging alternatives and combination therapies. We aim to offer an updated review on best practices for depigmenting treatment protocols and highlight ongoing debates on dermatologic safety and efficacy.

Introducing 2-Mercaptonicotinoyl Glycine (2-MNG): A New Addition to Our Therapeutic Armamentarium for Hyperpigmentation

Dyspigmentation is defeating….for the patient and the practitioner as it is often a secondary feature of chronic inflammatory skin diseases and often a greater challenge to manage and resolve. It is always darkest before the dawn (that line also makes us cringe) BUT we have practical pearl sunshine from JDD podcast regular Dr. Andrew Alexis, Professor of Clinical Dermatology and Vice-Chair for Diversity and Inclusion at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City.  From painting realistic expectations to practical hyperpigmentation practice pearls, Dr. Alexis and JDD Podcast host Dr. Adam Friedman cover the visible spectrum. What’s new you may ask? Oh plenty, but you will only pick it up if you pump up the podcast volume.

Next Steps in Derm, in partnership with ODAC Dermatology, Aesthetic and Surgical Conference, interviewed Dr. Vic Ross, Director of the Scripps Clinic Laser and Cosmetic Dermatology Center in San Diego, CA, on his approach and the various interventions he uses for the treatment of Melasma. Watch as he shares fresh practical pearls immediately useful in your practice.