{Reference Type}: Systematic Review
{Title}: Chemical Peels for Melasma: A Systematic Review.
{Author}: Sarkar R;Lakhani R;
{Journal}: Dermatol Surg
{Volume}: 50
{Issue}: 7
{Year}: 2024 Jul 1
{Factor}: 2.914
{DOI}: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000004167
{Abstract}: <B>BACKGROUND: </B>Melasma is a common chronic, relapsing pigmentary disorder that causes psychological impact. Chemical peels are a well-known therapeutic modality used for accelerating the treatment of melasma.<BR><B>OBJECTIVE: </B>To review the published evidence on the efficacy and safety of chemical peels in the treatment of melasma.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>A systematic review was done. A meta-analysis could not be done due to the heterogeneity of data.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>The authors conducted a PubMed search and included prospective case series of more than 10 cases and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that have studied the safety and/or efficacy of chemical peel in melasma. Out of 24 studies, 9 were clinical/comparative trials and 15 were RCTs. The total sample size was 1,075. The duration of the study varied from 8 to 36 weeks. Only 8 studies were split face. All studies used self-assessment, physician global assessment, and Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) for quantifying the results. Glycolic acid was found to be the most safe and effective in melasma.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Chemical peels were found to be safe and effective in the management of melasma.