There are many skincare ingredients available now with numerous claims of efficacy. There are a few ingredients however that have been studied extensively for many years and have clearly demonstrated their skincare benefits. Niacinamide (also called nicotinamide or NAM), which is the physiologically active form of the essential vitamin niacin or vitamin B3, has been shown to effectively treat various dermatological conditions. This ingredient has been shown to have antioxidant…

Tretinoin is a vitamin-A derivative that has been available for many years. It is known for being able to treat a variety of skin conditions effectively and safely. Most frequently it is prescribed for acne but it may also be used to treat melasma, hyperpigmentation, sun spots, fine lines/wrinkles, and more. One of the more difficult-to-treat skin complaints – stretch marks – may also be helped with topically applied tretinoin…

Melasma – an acquired condition that results in hypermelanosis of the skin – is a common condition among women that is notoriously difficult to treat. However, it is manageable and can be helped with the right topical treatment. While there is no cure for being susceptible to developing melasma, the appearance of hyperpigmentation can be reduced. This is accomplished through a combination of topical treatments and vigilant sun protection. Many…

Melasma kits are sold under a variety of brand names but all have similar ingredients. These kits come with a combination of chemical peels, creams, and cleansers. A compounding pharmacy can make a melasma kit with the same ingredients but in unique combinations and higher strengths. Commercially Available Melasma Kits: Melanage and Cosmelan MD Combining multiple ingredients into one chemical peel is not new. These ingredients have been used by…

One of the most common ingredients found in skin lightening creams is hydroquinone. This ingredient is frequently used by dermatologists to treat a variety of skin conditions. How Does Hydroquinone Work? Hydroquinone slows melanin production in areas where pigmentation has become darker than a person’s normal skin tone. It does this by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is needed to make melanin. The decrease in melanin from the medication lightens…

Chemical peels are one of the most common treatments performed by dermatologists and aestheticians. They can provide excellent results in a short time frame and are highly customizable. Peels are available with different ingredients based on an individual’s skin concerns and skin type. They can be made stronger or weaker depending on the severity of the skin problem and the patient’s tolerance level. Dermatologists are also able to have chemical…