Melasma

What it is

Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation triggered by hormonal changes, often during pregnancy or due to contraceptive use. It typically affects the face, particularly the cheeks, forehead and upper lip as brown or greyish patches.

Treatment

Daily sunscreen use is essential. Prescription creams containing hydroquinone or tretinoin, and treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy, can improve its appearance.

Mandelic Acid

What it is

Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds. It’s a gentle chemical exfoliant known for its larger molecular size, which allows it to penetrate the skin more slowly and evenly than stronger AHAs like glycolic acid. This makes it suitable for sensitive, reactive, or acne-prone skin types.

How it works in skincare

Mandelic acid helps dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting smoother texture and a brighter complexion. It also regulates oil production and supports clearer pores, which can make it particularly effective for treating mild acne and congestion.

Beyond exfoliation, this acid has antibacterial and pigment-fading properties. It’s often used to help even out skin tone, fade post-acne marks, and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation without causing irritation. In professional treatments, mandelic acid is sometimes incorporated into chemical peels for a controlled, radiant resurfacing effect that refreshes dull or uneven skin.

Melatonin Analogues

What they are

Melatonin analogues are topical ingredients designed to mimic some of the protective functions of melatonin within the skin. While melatonin is best known as a sleep hormone it also plays an important role in skin defence and repair.

How they work in skincare

In the skin, melatonin acts as a powerful antioxidant and supports DNA repair. Topical melatonin analogues help protect skin cells from oxidative stress caused by UV exposure and pollution, particularly overnight when the skin is in repair mode.

Topical melatonin analogues do not affect sleep or circadian rhythm when applied to the skin. Instead, they help reinforce the skin’s natural defences, making them particularly useful in night-time skincare for urban, sensitive and prematurely ageing skin.

Melasma

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