Journal of cosmetic dermatology
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Pigmentation of the skin occurs as a result of increased melanin production or deposition due to various reasons including age, hormonal imbalances, endocrine disease, inflammation, and/or exposure to damaging radiation, resulting in dermatologic conditions such as lentigines, melasma, or postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. Although numerous topical therapies exist for skin lightening, they are limited by efficacy and pigmentation recurrence after treatment cessation. New research into systemic therapies for hyperpigmentation has been promising. ⋯ With the patient population seeking effective systemic treatments for skin pigmentation, it is important for dermatologists to understand the properties, the efficacy, and the adverse events profile of each compound, thus ensuring proper use by patients, and that patients are appropriately counseled regarding treatment expectation and safety.