Bari A U.
Effects of 4% Hyroqunoine as an adjuvant treatment to superficial chemical facial peeling with Glycolic Acid in Melasma.
J Pak Assoc Derma Jan ;12(1):15-3.

Objective: The study aimed to assess the effects of 4% hydroquinone as an adjuvant treatment to superficial chemical peeling with glycolic acid in patients of melasma having predominant Fitzpatrick skin type IV and V. Methods: Forty patients of either sex and in the age group between 8-48 years, with melasma of any type and of variable duration, were included in the study. Six fortnightly facial peeling sessions with glycolic acid (30%-60%) were performed in all patients and then patients were randomly divided in two groups of twenty each. Group I patients were treated with 4% hydroquinone cream for subsequent three months while no such treatment was offered to group II patients. Avoidance of sun exposure and regular use of broad spectrum sunscreen was emphasized throughout in all patients. Evaluation was done before and after treatment based upon both subjective (MASI score, lightening of skin) as well as objective (measurement 01 affected area, photographs) parameters. Results: Moderate to excellent response to chemical peeling was observed in all patients The results were significantly better in patients who were also treated with hydroquinone in addition. Mild and transient adverse reactions like burning, stinging, irritation, erythema and dryness were seen in most of the patients. Conclusion: Combining hydroquinone can significantly enhance efficacy of chemical peeling with glycolic acid in melasma.

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