Efficiency of complex application of СО2 laser and tranexamic acid in the treatment of melasma
https://doi.org/10.33667/2078-5631-2025-23-74-79
Abstract
Melasma is a common, chronic, and recurrent pigmentation disorder caused by excessive melanin deposition in the epidermal and dermal layers of the skin. The treatment strategy for melasma presents a complex challenge, as it depends on the severity of the condition and the individual characteristics of the patient. One effective method for treating melasma is the combined use of laser therapy and the topical application of tranexamic acid, which has the property of reducing melanogenesis activity.
Objective. To compare the efficacy and safety of melasma treatment using CO2-laser monotherapy versus a combination of laser therapy and the topical application of tranexamic acid.
Materials and methods. The study included 20 patients, 10 of whom underwent three combined procedures of fractional photothermolysis using a CO2‑aser (10600 nm) followed by the application of a 5% tranexamic acid solution at 4‑week intervals. The other 10 patients received only the CO2‑laser procedure at the same intervals. Quantitative assessment methods included the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI), mexametry, and the Melasma Quality of Life scale (MELASQOL). Clinical evaluation was also performed using the «Antera» 3D skin imaging and diagnostic device.
Conclusions. The use of a CO3‑laser followed by the application of a 5% tranexamic acid solution demonstrated greater effectiveness compared to laser therapy alone.
About the Authors
N. S. Logacheva
Central State Medical Academy of the Administrative Department of the President of the Russian Federation;
Aesthetic medical clinic “Chistiye prudy”
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Logacheva Natalia S., candidate for the academic degree of candidate of
sciences at Dept of Dermatovenereology and Cosmetology; dermatologist, cosmetologist
Moscow
A. A. Sharova
Central State Medical Academy of the Administrative Department of the President of the Russian Federation;
N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University (Pirogov University);
Aesthetic medical clinic “Chistiye prudy”
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Sharova Alisa A., DM Sci (habil.), professor at Dept of Dermatovenereology and
Cosmetology; associate professor at Dept of Reconstructive and Plastic Surgery,
Cosmetology, and Cellular Technologies; scientific supervisor
Moscow
E. A. Shatokhina
Central State Medical Academy of the Administrative Department of the President of the Russian Federation;
Medical Scientific and Educational Center of Lomonosov Moscow State University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Shatokhina Evgeniya A., DM Sci (habil.), professor at Dept of Dermatovenereology and Cosmetology; leading researcher at Dept of Internal Medicine
Moscow
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Review
For citations:
Logacheva N.S., Sharova A.A., Shatokhina E.A. Efficiency of complex application of СО2 laser and tranexamic acid in the treatment of melasma. Medical alphabet. 2025;1(23):74-79. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.33667/2078-5631-2025-23-74-79
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