Korean J Dermatol.
2012 Jul;50(7):579-583.
Change of Quality of Life after Melasma Treatment
- Affiliations
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- 1Department of Dermatology, Gachon University, Incheon, Korea. dmjj1@gilhospital.com
Abstract
- BACKGROUND
Melasma is an acquired, symmetrical hypermelanosis that occurs on sun-exposed areas of the skin. It has significant emotional and psychological effects on those affected with the condition. Melasma Quality of Life Scale (MELASQOL) is a specific questionnaire to identify the most impaired areas of melasma patient's life.
OBJECTIVE
Our purpose of this study is to investigate the changing of MELASQOL after the treatment of melasma.
METHODS
A total of 27 volunteers with melasma were enrolled in this 8-week treatment study. The patients were instructed to apply an arbutin-containing cream,once a day for 8 weeks. The assessment of outcomes included the colorimetric value (L*) and MELASQOL score.
RESULTS
The arbutin-containing cream group increased more in the colorimetric values (L*) after the 8-week treatment (p<0.01). The MELASQOL score was decreased (p=0.02). No significant adverse reactions were observed.
CONCLUSION
The treatment of melasma improves the QOL of melasma patients.
