Dermatology

Melasma

Melasma is a common hypermelanotic disorder affecting the face that is associated with considerable psychological impacts. The management of melasma is challenging and requires a long-term treatment plan. In addition to avoidance of aggravating factors like oral pills and ultraviolet exposure, topical therapy has remained the mainstay of treatment. Multiple options for topical treatment are available, of which hydroquinone (HQ) is the most commonly prescribed agent. Besides HQ, other topical agents for which varying degrees of evidence for clinical efficacy exist include azelaic acid, kojic acid, retinoids, topical steroids, glycolic acid, mequinol, and arbutin.

Topical medications modify various stages of melanogenesis, the most common mode of action being inhibition of the enzyme, tyrosinase. Combination therapy is the preferred mode of treatment for the synergism and reduction of untoward effects. The most popular combination consists of HQ, a topical steroid, and retinoic acid. Prolonged HQ usage may lead to untoward effects like depigmentation and exogenous ochronosis. The search for safer alternatives has given rise to the development of many newer agents, several of them from natural sources.

TriLuma is a prescription-strength topical skin medication that is commonly used to treat melasma and hyperpigmentation on the face, neck, decollete and hands when over-the-counter skin lightening products fail.

TriLuma blends three powerful skin care ingredients into a single formula that is safe and effective for an eight-week treatment course to improve skin tone.

TriLuma Ingredients

TriLuma contains hydroquinone 4% (a skin bleaching agent), tretinoin 0.05% (the active ingredient in Retin A and Renova) and fluocinolone 0.01% (a mild steroid). This combination of ingredients is extremely effective for reducing skin discoloration associated with melasma, acne scars and sun damage, as well as fine lines, wrinkles and skin inflammation.

TriLuma Side Effects

TriLuma can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so it is important to wear a broad spectrum sunscreen and use other methods of sun protection daily. This will also increase the effectiveness of melasma treatment by not worsening symptoms via sun exposure.

Skin irritation including dryness, itching, burning, redness and peeling may occur with TriLuma use but usually resolves within a few weeks, once your skin is used to the product.

Using too much TriLuma may increase irritation, so be sure to follow application instructions and use only the recommended amount.