Natural Remedies for Melasma
Herbs
Proanthocyanidin is a powerful polyphenolic antioxidant found in grape seeds. Japan researches found that grape seed extract is effective and safe for improving melasma (chloasma). The greatest effect in reducing the hyperpigmentation is achieved after 6 monthers of grape seed extract intake.
Scientific evidence of Grape seed extract. effectiveness
- 1. Yamakoshi J, Sano A, Tokutake S, Saito M, Kikuchi M, Kubota Y, Kawachi Y, Otsuka F. Oral intake of proanthocyanidin-rich extract from grape seeds improves chloasma. Phytother Res. 2004 Nov;18(11):895-9. PubMed
Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids
Topically applied unsaturated Omega-3 (Alpha-linolenic acid) and Omega-6 (Linoleic acid) fatty acids produce pigment-lightening effect on melasma. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids suppress melanin production by active melanocytes, and to enhance desquamation of melanin pigment from the epidermis.
Scientific evidence of Omega-3 and Omega-6 effectiveness
- 1. Ando H, Ryu A, Hashimoto A, Oka M, Ichihashi M. Linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid lightens ultraviolet-induced hyperpigmentation of the skin. Arch Dermatol Res. 1998 Jul;290(7):375-81. PubMed
Pomegranate extract may be used as an effective skin whitening remedy.
Scientific evidence of Pomegranate extract effectiveness
- 1. Yoshimura M, Watanabe Y, Kasai K, Yamakoshi J, Koga T. Inhibitory effect of an ellagic acid-rich pomegranate extract on tyrosinase activity and ultraviolet-induced pigmentation. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2005 Dec;69(12):2368-73. PubMed
- 2. Kasai K, Yoshimura M, Koga T, Arii M, Kawasaki S. Effects of oral administration of ellagic acid-rich pomegranate extract on ultraviolet-induced pigmentation in the human skin. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 2006 Oct;52(5):383-8. PubMed
French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol)
Pycnogenol is the patented trade name for a water extract of the bark of the French maritime pine (Pinus pinaster), which is grown in coastal south-west France. Pycnogenol contains oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) as well as several other bioflavonoids: catechin, epicatechin, phenolic fruit acids (such as ferulic acid and caffeic acid), and taxifolin. Procyanidins are oligometric catechins found at high concentrations in red wine, grapes, cocoa, cranberries, apples, and some supplements such as Pycnogenol.
Pycnogenol may decrease the darkened area and the pigment intensity of melasma.
Scientific evidence of Pycnogenol effectiveness
- 1.Ni Z, Mu Y, Gulati O. Treatment of melasma with Pycnogenol. Phytother Res. 2002 Sep;16(6):567-71. PubMed
Ascorbic acid is a sugar acid with antioxidant properties. The L-enantiomer of ascorbic acid is commonly known as vitamin C. 5% ascorbic acid cream is effective in the treatment of melasma and is almost devoid of side-effects.
Scientific evidence of Ascorbic acid effectiveness
- 1. Espinal-Perez LE, Moncada B, Castanedo-Cazares JP. A double-blind randomized trial of 5% ascorbic acid vs. 4% hydroquinone in melasma. Int J Dermatol. 2004 Aug;43(8):604-7. PubMed