N° 43 · Protocol · Protocol guide
The flagship melasma protocol — a retinoid-led, self-neutralising four-acid cream peel. Applied in clinic, worn 4–6 hours, removed at home. For pigment that has resisted everything else.
Neutralise
Remove by washing at the 4–6 h endpoint. Do not apply a neutraliser.
Protocol
Cleanse and degrease in clinic. Confirm no active retinoid use and a completed 24 h patch test.
One even coat by brush. Avoid the orbital and lip margins. The film sets yellow — this is expected.
The patient leaves with the mask on and wears it 4–6 hours. Brief them on the endpoint before they go.
The patient washes it off at home at the timed endpoint. No neutraliser — the peel self-neutralises.
Soothing barrier cream and broad-spectrum SPF. Strict sun avoidance 5–7 days. Review at 2 weeks.
Suitability