From the Guidelines
Polypodium leucotomos extract is a recommended adjunctive treatment for melasma due to its photoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. According to the British Journal of Dermatology study 1, agents like Polypodium leucotomos extract may protect against photochemical damage and decrease long-term carcinogenesis, which is beneficial in treating melasma. The typical dosage of Polypodium leucotomos extract for melasma is 240-480 mg daily, taken orally about 30 minutes before sun exposure for optimal protection.
Key benefits of using Polypodium leucotomos extract for melasma include:
- Photoprotection against UV-induced damage
- Reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation in the skin
- Potential to decrease melanin production and provide antioxidant effects
- Generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects
When using Polypodium leucotomos extract for melasma, it is essential to combine it with other treatment modalities, such as:
- Topical agents (hydroquinone, retinoids, or tranexamic acid)
- Chemical peels
- Strict sun protection measures, including broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30-50 Results typically take 8-12 weeks to become noticeable, and the extract should be continued long-term for maintenance. As with any supplement, pregnant women should consult their physician before using Polypodium leucotomos extract. Overall, Polypodium leucotomos extract is a valuable addition to a comprehensive treatment approach for melasma, given its potential to reduce melanin production and provide antioxidant effects, as suggested by the study 1.
From the Research
Polypodium in Melasma
- Polypodium leucotomos (PLE) has been studied as a potential treatment for melasma, with some studies suggesting its effectiveness in improving the condition 2, 3, 4.
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found that oral PLE supplementation significantly improved melasma in Asian patients, with significant differences in modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (mMASI) scores between the PLE and placebo groups 2.
- Another study found that PLE aqueous extract product significantly improved and accelerated the outcome reached with hydroquinone and sunscreen in the treatment of melasma, with no significant side effects reported 2.
- A systematic review of topical and systemic therapies for melasma found that PLE may be taken as an adjunct treatment, with oral tranexamic acid receiving a strong recommendation as a systemic treatment for melasma 5.
- A review of the use of PLE as an adjunct treatment for pigmentary disorders found that it may be beneficial for the prevention and potential treatment of melasma, with significant improvements in melasma severity in women after 12 weeks of oral PLE administration 3.
- A comprehensive review of melasma found that PLE is a promising oral therapy for the treatment of melasma, with combination therapies generally resulting in better efficacies than monotherapies 4.
- An evidence-based review of melasma treatments found that oral tranexamic acid is a promising new treatment for moderate and severe recurrent melasma, but more studies are needed to determine its long-term safety and efficacy, and that PLE may be a potential adjunctive treatment for melasma 6.