A Comparative Study of Kojic Acid and Hydroquinone 2% Creams for the Treatment of Melasma

Background and aims: Melasma is an acquired hyperpigmentation on the face, which generally happens in women between the ages of 30 to 35. If treatment is not performed in a timely manner, many cosmetic problems can arise. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of kojic acid and hydroquinone 2% creams for the treatment of melasma. Methods: 100 women with epidermic melasma who were referred to the dermatology department of the 22 Bahman Hospital in Mashhad were used in this clinical trial. Each patient had at least two melasma lesions of similar severity and size on both sides of the face. For each patient, kojic acid cream on one side of the face and hydroquinone 2% cream on the other side of the face were prescribed. The researchers assessed the rate of improvement over a three month period. Results: For both applications, a positive response of 7% for kojic acid treatment and 10% for hydroquinone treatment were seen one month after beginning the treatment. After two months, a positive response of 24% for kojic acid and 22% for hydroquinone was observed. The differences were not statistically significant between two groups after 2 months, but statistical significance was seen after 3 months, with positive responses of 58% for kojic acid and 30% for hydroquinone. Conclusion: Kojic acid was more suitable than hydroquinone for the treatment of melasma. Therefore, kojic acid should be considered in the protocol of treatment for this pigmentation disorder. Key word: Melasma, Kojic acid, Hydroquinone 2%.