Efficacy and safety of a new superficial chemical peel using alpha-hydroxy acid, vitamin C and oxygen for melasma

Background: Facial skin pigmentary disorders can be resistant to conventional treatment. Superficial chemical peel is an effective and safe treatment in pigmentary problems including melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and aging spots. Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of new superficial chemical peel (Melasma peel, Theraderm^®), this is composed of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHAs), vitamin C and oxygen for melasma. Methods: Twenty-five ethnic Korean patients (Fitzpatrick skin phototypes IV and V) with moderate to severe melasma were enrolled. The patients underwent four treatments at 1-2-week intervals for 8 weeks. Clinical improvement was evaluated on a 5-point scale by participants and by the same dermatologist, and adverse effects were checked during the study. Results: Improvement in the degree of pigmentation, pores, and evenness were noted. Significant clinical improvement of hyperpigmentation was evident. No adverse effects were reported. Conclusion: New superficial chemical peel using AHAs, vitamin C and oxygen is an effective and very safe treatment for melasma.