Q: I am suffering form melasma with brown reddish spots on my skin. A doctor advised me to use Acretin 0.05%, tretino Aldoquine cream 2%, Emovait cream uniton 4 cream (anti-brown spots). I am using these medicines from the last 3 months but until now I think there has not been any improvement. Sometimes I also feel a burning sensation. I want to know for how many months do I have to use these?

A:Melasma is a common condition noticed in either sex. Hormone and sunlight are factors that play an important role. The depth of the pigmentation has to be ascertained before giving any treatment. In your case a clinical evaluation needs to be done first and then treatment planned accordingly. A nearby dermatologist will be a better person to judge this. Combination of Retonic acid, Hydro cortisone and hydroquinone can be used. From the information you have sent it appears that you have used all these. Therefore superficial or medium depth chemical peeling may be beneficial in your case. Regarding your redness on applying various creams you better stop them as your skin is not able to accept it. You may use sunscreens.