Efficacy of Skin Needling Device versus Placebo in Treatment of Melasma

Abstract

Background: Melasma is a common acquired condition of symmetric hyperpigmentation, which typically happening on the face with higher prevalence in females and darker skin types. Multiple causes aslight exposure, hormonal changes and family history have been implicated in the melasma pathogenesis.

Objective: To assess the efficacy of microneedling with dermapen in the treatment of melasma compared to placebo.

Patients and methods: The study comprised 17 patients with melasma. They were collected from Dermatology Outpatient Clinics of Zagazig University Hospital. Each patient had five sessions for treatment of facial melasma in split face manner with two weeks interval between the sessions. Right side: each patient was applied with microneedling (dermapen) while, left side was with placebo. A modified MASI (melasma area and severity index) scoring system was assessed.

Results: There was a significant difference in mMASI score between baseline and after sessions in right side (Dermapen) (p<0.001*), while no significant change between baseline and after sessions in left side (placebo). Physician global assessment in right side (Dermapen) showed a significantly lowered mean physician global assessment than left side (placebo) (p<0.001*). According to the pattern of melasma either (malar or centrofacial), there was a significant decrease in mMASI score among right side (Dermapen) compared to placebo. Regarding the clinical pattern of melasma either epidermal or mixed melasma, there was no statistical significant difference between the right side (Dermapen) and left side (placebo).

Conclusion: Microneedling technique alone using dermapen provides significant lightening effect with a satisfactory results compared to placebo.