Table of Contents
Melasma Cures
"Melasma (also known as chloasma or the mask of pregnancy when present in pregnant women) is a tan or dark facial skin discoloration. Although it can affect anyone, melasma is particularly common in women, especially pregnant women and those who are taking oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) medications. It is also prevalent in men and women of Native American descent (on the forearms) and in men and women of German/Russian Jewish descent (on the face).
The symptoms of melasma are dark, irregular patches commonly found on the upper cheek, nose, lips, upperlip, and forehead. These patches often develop gradually over time. Melasma does not cause any other symptoms beyond the cosmetic discoloration." (Wikipedia)
TED'S REMEDIES
07/11/2006: Denise writes: "I need help in finding a remedy for melasma. I have tried numerous products synthetic and natural. There must be a combination out there that will fade this and age spots. Please let me know if there is help out there. I prefer to use natural products."
Ted from Bangkok, Thailand writes: "First, melasma is a case of hyperpigmentation of the skin caused by hormonal imbalance, and is usually found but not exclusively in women on hormone replacements and pregnancy.Since excess hormones is at issue, the most common problems I have seen people with this condition is oxidative damaged caused by hormones as it tends to cause condition of the skin to hyper-repair, such as when you have a cut or scrapes on your skin. When it does that the skin gets dark from the scars. When the skin cells get damaged, the skin tend to be darker. The condition is really opposite of tinea, which is relatively well understood, and it causes the lack of pigmentation. This is due to the acids which is produced by the fungus that destroys the excess skin pigmentation. These are more than enough clues to know where the treatment is going.
For one thing, when your body have excess hormones, the best way to get about that (besides reducing excess hormones if you can), is that since excess hormones causes excess oxidative damage to the skin, the skin goes on hyper activity. As a result oxidative damage is the cause. Therefore you need obviously, antioxidants. Since the skin is on hyper the body's demand to build collagen goes on hyper too, therefore, you need a supportive supplements which supports that too. Since vitamin C enchances collagen production as well as being antioxidant, it would therefore be logical to take a large does of vitamin C and other antioxidants, in particular, selenium, silicon magnesium, zinc, and vitamin E.
It has been my experience that when oxidative damage does occur (and it usually does) the body's sugar levels and fat metabolism is at risk. Therefore taking lecithin appears ideal to handle the body's ability to remove excess oxidants and fats when the body is hyper. When that happens, skin pigmentation is reduced.
It would also appear, possibly that by washing the skin where there is melasma using vinegar and/or apple cider vinegar would help as this is acid, removes excess oils would help suppress hyperpigmentation as mentioned in the case of tinea and this can theoretically be a supportive therapy to do that too.
Licorice extract obviously will reduce hyperpigmentation as it is a common skin whitening agent and this supportive therapy will also reduce excess hyperpigmentation. It is quite common when hormone is in excess that the adrenal exhaustion appears a possibility, so taking some licorice extract, one teaspoon to 1 tablespoon for only a week would also alleviate the condition too.
There are many ways I deal with melasma, one way was for me to mix evening primrose oil, vitamin E, together with some aloe vera oil to help reduce the darkening or excess skin (pigmentation) also. Of course, this is not done everyday, I do it maybe once a week. It helps smooth out the skin and reduce the hyperpigmentation too.
These are only one of the many ways you can deal with melasma. There are other ways, but this should handle most people with this conditon, assuming of course it is not a severe one and that would take much longer to heal and treatment is more difficult."
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Ted from bangkok, Thailand writes: "Your melasma depends on what kind you are taking about. If it is aged spots or liver, Vitamin B3 niacinamide (nicotinic acid) NOT niacin, will dissolve the age spots on your skin. It must be done long and frequent enough, about 3 months. I make it stronger by adding a 10% DMSO solution and water and added maybe 20% niacinamide to apply to the skin. Of course, for me one single application does it, but that is more like getting dead skin cells out, and age spots take a while longer.Now another kind of melasma is fungus related. once we know the organism then treatment should be quite simple enough. A boric acid solution maybe 10% enough can be done and applied onto skin should kill it. Of course, at the time my friend had melasma, I have her lavender oil + tea tree oil, to be applied frequent enough throughout the day. It takes about a month of application before the melasma will reduced, but you should notice improvement within a week. A weak copper chloride solution of 5% applied onto skin might also help too. Copper is fairly toxic to the fungus."
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3 YEA 2 NAY
09/15/2008: Ann from Los Angeles, CA writes: "Hello, Everyone: I just wanted to let you know that I am trying the liquid Grapefruit Seed Extract. So far it's only been about a week, and I have not noticed any change in my melasma. I will post again after 4 weeks have passed and then after 8 weeks have passed."
[NAY]10/11/2008: Ann from Los Angeles, CA replies: "Well, it's been almost a month since I've been using the Grapefruit Seed Extract, and so far I do not see any noticeable improvement in my melasma.
I have been mixing 25 drops/2 times a day mixed in with juice. This stuff tastes truly awful mixed with water, so I had to mix it with juice to be able to drink it.
Anyway, I will continue using the Grapefruit Seed Extract until I have finished the bottle that I bought. I will write back again in another month or so to let you all know if I have any lightening."
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[YEA] 07/01/2008: Joy from Columbia, SC writes: "Hello Everyone - I have decided to give the Grapefruit Seed Extract/GSE a try also, and have been doing so for 3 days now. It is really too early for me to report on how I think it is doing, but I feel like it is working.
I have been out in the sun, and wear hats/sunscreen and it has not gotten any darker. Last summer mine would get darker no matter how much sun protection I used, I was pregnant then. I have had it for going on 5 years now, prior to my pregnancies.
I wanted to write in about the GSE liquid. The lady at the health food store suggested some Empty Gelatin Capsule's and they are the ticket. The GSE is bitter, and does not taste good at all, so the capsules really make the whole experience much better. I am still taking the MSM -2,000mg once a day, and 2 -Cranberry pills 475 mg twice a day pills instead of Vitamin C. And the GSE 20 drops 3 times a day, and plan to increase as everyone recommends.
I will report back on my results in a week or so, but wanted to let everyone know about the Gelatin Capsule's. Keep posting this wonderful information! I want to thank everyone! It has helped so many people including me.
Mine is so much better than before, not gone, but much, much less noticeable and ALMOST gone!"
07/05/2008: Deb from Albuquerque, NM replies: "Hello, Joy just reading your post and I'm glad to hear that your melasma has lightened, how bad was your melasma was it dark and where did you have your melasma,what is the reason why not vitamin C. has the cranberry helped out with the GSE? Has the GSE really helped out a lot. I have tried so many creams Etc. with no results. Seems to spread at times or get darker."
[YEA]07/07/2008: Mychelle from Irvine, CA replies: "I've been trying a few of the suggestions and I've noticed a huge improvement using the GSE drops (15 drops in juice and water -because it tastes awful- 5x daily) for about three weeks now. My spots haven't lightened but they've broken up and there are far fewer. I have had melasma on my forehead, cheeks, and a bit in other places and this is the first time I've seen real, I'm-not-imagining-it results. I'm also taking MSM 1000mg 3x a day and Vitamin C. Before this I had tried Cosmelan, IPL, everything! Thanks so much for the great advice, I'm looking forward to when it is completely gone, finally! :)"
07/08/2008: Joy from Columbia, SC replies: "Hello Michelle - I am really glad you are getting good results. I to have tried many, many different things from chemical peels and creams nothing worked, and gave me results like all of the suggestions on this site.
As for the Cranberry I was taking it for other reasons, and it is an Antioxidant so I did not do the Vitamin C for a while. I am back on the Vitamin C instead. I am taking MSM - 2,000 mg, - Vitamin C 500mg twice a day and GSE 15 drops 4 times a day.
My Melasma was on my cheeks, forehead, bridge of my nose, and I had a spot on my chin. My cheeks are clear, except a little on each temple. My chin is clear. And my forehead and bridge of my nose are still where it is dominate. My forehead is almost completely covered, however it is all really, really light where it remains. I have a very fair complexion, and mine was about 3 shades darker than the rest of my skin. Now it is only one shade darker. Mine was brown, not black.
I too am looking forward to the day when it is completely gone as well.
"
10/20/2008: Joy from Columbia, SC replies: "Hello Everyone - I have not written in a while. After added the GSE to my routine. I did not notice that my melasma was going away completely, and like others it would get darker closer to my cycle. I was trying some oil of olay cream at the same time so I don't know which one was lightning it. I had seen some information about liver cleansing and alternative medicine. I went to an alternative medicine doctor and we worked on getting rid of Candida. I have been on a number of cleanses and now take a multi vitamin called Intramax. My melasma is not completely gone, but I don't notice it at all anymore, and can go with out make up. Which is something that I have not been able to do for years. I feel wonderful!! I still take 1,000 mg of Vit C. Wanted to write in and let everyone know they need to find an alterative medicine doctor and they will help you come up with the right plan to make you look and feel better. Good luck to everyone. I am back to my oldself, and hope everyone finds their path. I would not be on my road to complete healing if it was not for this site. Thank you everyone for posting your stories. Treating yourself from the inside out is what works."
11/16/2008: Vivien from Singapore replies: "I've read the thread on GSE (grapefruit seed extract) helping to clear facial melasma/discoloration. What is it in grapefruit seed extract that clears the discoloration? I read that grape seed extract does the same thing. I'm rather confused between the two GSE. Thanks for your feedback."
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[YEA] 05/16/2008: Marea from Dallas, Texas writes: "I share your sentiments about melasma. I, too, was afflicted with this condition, but nothing you do externally will be of great help or even permanent, unless you also address your internal terrain. I started using an herbal liver cleanse, and it took four months before I started noticing improvements. My melasma was reduced by half by the end of six months. However, when I started taking Grapefruit Seed Extract (the natural citricidal kind) for an unrelated condition, to my amazement, the melasma started dissapering at a faster rate than with the herbal treatment. It took only about four weeks to almost completely dissapear. I believe liver spots, melasma, age spots, whatever they are called are mostly related to an internal fungal condition, which the GSE greatly treated and that is why it acted so much faster. I was taking it five times a day on an empty stomach."
05/22/2008: Deborah from Albuquerque, NM replies: "Hello Maria,
Were you taking the pill or the liquid (GSE) what brand and where did your purchase yours? Where did you have the melasma? And is your melasma gone completely? Do you use sun screen? Sorry so many questions but it's so hard to get rid of the melasma. Hope to hear from you. Thank You."
05/22/2008: Debbie (MusicJoy1@aol.com) from New York, NY replies: "What brand of GSE were you using?"
06/17/2008: Laura from Wichita, KS replies: "Marea, What mg of GSE were you using? I bought the 250mg (the highest potency I could find) and just started taking it yesterday. The directions are to take one 3x's a day with food. Do you think that would be adequate? I'm also taking 1,000mg of MSM twice a day. Been doing this for a week. Any more info you can give would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!"
06/19/2008: Marea from Dallas, Texas replies: "TO DEBORAH FROM ALBUQUERQUE, NM and TO DEBBIE FROM NEW YORK,NY
I don't know if I can mention brands, but I was taking the NutriBiotic original GSE liquid concentrate unfiltered formula (10 drops contain 100mg) which I purchased at a Whole Foods supermarket, to be taken 5-15 drops in 5oz. or more of water or juice 1-3 times daily, with or without meals.
My melasma was on the sides of my forehead, very pronounced on my nose, some on my upper cheek bones and somewhat around my mouth. And, yes, it is all gone, except for one tiny spot on my nose where it was the most pronounced. I had gone on vacation for three weeks and had stopped using the GSE. The Melasma has not returned, but I have started up again on GSE to get that one spot left on my nose. No, I don't use sunscreen. I don't like to use chemicals anywhere on my skin. I use hats during the sun's peak hours. If you decide to try it, I hope it works for you, as well as it did for me. Do remember though, that you would also have to address your internal terrain. Going on an internal cleanse to flush out your colon and liver would greatly benefit your overall health. My best to you.
TO LAURA FROM WICHITA,KS
Laura, I was using 15-20 drops of liquid GSE extract (the natural citricidal kind)five times a day on an empty stomach (10 drops100mg for a total of 750mg-1000mg daily). I started with 20 drops three times a day, for a few days, increased to 20 drops five times a day for a few weeks, then tapered off to 15 drops five times a day. I prefer the liquid GSE because, in my opinion, it is more easily absorbed and perhaps faster acting. If taken on an empty stomach, you do have to increase gradually because otherwise you might experience some mild stomach acidity. I don't know if you will get the same results with tablets or capsules. Just try it and if it doesn't work then switch to liquid and see if it works better for you. Do be aware, though, that the liquid extract tastes bitter. If you do an internet search on the benefits of GSE, you will see that it states it does not affect beneficial intestinal flora; however, I took probiotics at separate times, just as a precautionary measure.
I have never tried the MSM. Joyce from Joelton and Ted highly recommend it, and they are very knowledgeable, so I am sure that would help, too. I wish you the best at resolving your skin condition. I hope it works for you as well as it did for me."
06/19/2008: Marea from Dallas, Texas replies: "To Laura from Wichita: Laura, I was using 15-20 drops of liquid GSE extract (the natural citricidal kind) five times a day on an empty stomach (10 drops =100mg for a total of 750mg-1,000mg daily). I started with 20 drops three times a day, for a few days, increased to 20 drops five times a day for a few weeks, then tapered off to 15 drops five times a day. I prefer the liquid GSE because, in my opinion, it is more easily absorbed and perhaps faster acting. If taken on an empty stomach, you do have to increase gradually because otherwise you might experience some mild stomach acidity. I don't know if you will get the same results with tablets or capsules. Just try it and if it doesn't work then switch to liquid and see if it works better for you. Do be aware, though, that the liquid extract tastes very bitter. If you do an internet search on the benefits of GSE you will see that it states it does not affect beneficial intestinal flora; however, I took probiotics at separate times, just as a precautionary measure. I have never tried the MSM. Joyce from Joelton and Ted highly recommend it, and they are both very knowledgeable, so I am sure that would help, too. I wish you the best at resolving your skin condition. I hope it works for you as well as it did for me."
06/29/2008: Leah from Suffolk, VA replies: "Marea - How long did you have melasma, and the GSE actually worked? I've had it for a few years and nothing has worked and can't believe one extract would work and others don't know about it. Does it seem as if it's permanent. Can you give us an update on your status as of 6/30/08?? Sorry about unsuredness, but if you've had it a long time, you know how stubborn it is. I'm taking 19 pills a day to get rid of it right now and am adding GSE!"
07/07/2008: Laura from Wichita, KS replies: "Marea, Thank you for your feedback. I will keep that liquid in mind. I appreciate your input!"
07/09/2008: Laura from Wichita, KS replies: "Melasma: For those of you reading the posts. I just wanted to update you all on my condition. I had my hormones checked and my progesterone was pretty low. I started the bio identical hormone therapy last night. They put me on 125mg of progesterone dissolve tabs. Part of the month, I will only be taking half that dose. Also, I started yesterday upping my intake of MSM to 2,000mg twice a day along with 1000mg vit C twice a day. I'm also taking the 500mg grapefruit seed extract twice a day. I'm continuing with 50mg of zinc a day to help with any copper overload caused by the estrogen dominance. We'll just see how this goes after a few weeks! I will keep you posted."
07/12/2008: Kristin from Wichita, KS, USA replies: "Laura,
I am also from Wichita, KS. What Dr. are you seeing that has provided you with your hormone level check?
I have lived with Melasma since 1999 when I was pregnant with my first child. The only medication I have used is Triluma. It did have little results but left my skin flaky and dry. I am interested in finding out more about Melasma.
A very good friend of mine found this website and I am certainly thankful for her passing along the information as I have found many interesting facts and remedies to try. Please let me know how you are progressing and what Dr. you have been seeing here in Wichita.
Thank you so much for your information, and I wish you the best of luck.
Kristin"
07/21/2008: Leah from Suffolk, VA replies: "Marea, Laura, others - Any feedback on GSE as of 7/21/08 and how working on your hormone levels might help work against melasma??"
[NAY]07/23/2008: Laura from Wichita, KS replies: "To Kristin from Wichita KS. Hi Kristin. I see is Azure, she's Dr. Tana Goering's PA. She's pretty well versed in the bio identical hormone therapy. Good luck! I haven't noticed the GSE has helped my melasma either. I'm just hoping this hormone therapy will give me some results for a change. Living with this for 10 yrs now is about to drive me crazy. All I want to do is let the sun shine on my face! Even if it's just for 10 minutes! Good luck to you and sorry it took so long to respond. I've been extremely busy."
08/18/2008: Marea from Dallas, Texas replies: "GRAPEFRUIT SEED EXTRACT FOR MELASMA
TO LAURA FROM WICHITA,KS: Laura, I have been traveling this summer, so I am now catching up on my reading, and noticed your comment on the CURES section for Melasma. You said you "haven't noticed the GSE has helped my melasma either". I would like to encourage you to persevere just a little longer, don't give up too soon. I treated my melasma successfully with GSE, and gave the GSE extract to a friend who also treated hers successfully, but took her a little longer to see results. I can only deduce that the longer you have had the melasma, the longer it will take to see results. I had my melasma for about five years and it took four weeks to see results. My friend had hers for about 12 years and it took her about nine to ten weeks to begin to see results.
Also, I noticed that you were taking several things such as MSM, Vitamin C, Zinc for copper overload, hormone therapy in addition to GSE capsules. I am wondering if perhaps too many things for the same condition are causing system overload. Not only that, but also you were using GSE capsules (or tablets?) which in my opinion, may not be as effective as the GSE liquid extract itself. I had started with an herbal liver cleanse prior to the GSE which addressed my internal terrain, which I believe helped to get things started, but I KEPT IT SIMPLE and used no additional supplements. I used the GSE liquid extract on an empty stomach mixed with plain filtered water, NOT mixed with any juice so it would not interfere with digestion or assimilation. I learned to tolerate the taste.
If your condition is hormone related, perhaps the hormone therapy is what will work for you. Everyone's body chemistry is different, so what may work for some, may not work for others. But we should all be willing to try different avenues until we find what works for us. In many cases, it is also a matter of giving a remedy sufficient time to work. Let me know of your progress. I wish you well in your quest for a solution to you condition. Marea
TO LEAH FROM SUFFOLK,VA: Leah, I had my melasma for about five years, and yes the GSE (GRAPEFRUIT SEED EXTRACT, NOT Grapeseed) worked for me. It took only a few weeks, but it might take longer for those who have had melasma for a longer period of time. So far, I would consider it permanent resolution as my melasma has NOT returned.
TO DENISE FROM BROOKLYN,NY: Denise, you said you were experiencing side effects from the MSM and wondered if Vitamin C and GSE worked on their own to treat melasma. In my personal case, I took NOTHING ELSE BUT GSE. The GSE worked for me all by itself. I had started taking GSE for an unrelated condition after I had finished doing an herbal liver cleanse to address my internal terrain, when I realized to my delight that it was breaking up my melasma faster than the liver cleanse! It cleared it completely, and to this date, it has not returned. I wish you well in successfully treating yours."
08/18/2008: Denise (mojodede@msn.com) from Brooklyn, NY replies: "To Marea, Thank you so much I am taking the msm and the grapefruitseed extract in pills because I am unable to find liquid. I think I am going to try the GSE alone to see if I get these wonderful results that you have obtained. I am very curious about this liver herbal cleanse can you tell me more and how to do this. My daughter is getting married in June/2009 and my dream is to go to her wedding with a clear face, I know this sounds vain but anyone who suffers from this dreadful condition knows how bad it can make you feel. Looking forward to hearing from you, thanks for the info."
08/19/2008: Denise (mojodede@msn.com) from Brooklyn , New York replies: "Re Marea's posts: I am a melasma sufferer and I have seen several posts about herbal liver cleanse and how well it removes toxins from the body. I am very interested in this procedure however have no clue how to go about it? Can someone help me here?"
08/27/2008: Irma Louise from Pescadero, CA replies: "Does mixing GSE into my green tea lessen the benefits of either? I've found that when I do this, I don't taste the bitterness of the GSE as I do when I drink it in plain water. Since I want to drink several cups of green tea per day and take several doses of GSE to help with my melasma, I am hoping this combination proves effective."
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2 YEA
[YEA] 08/08/2007: jamie from laguna hills, ca writes: "i read in a book that swedish woman use horseradish on their faces to cure brown spots. I tried it and i will have to say it really worked. Not only did it take away brown spots instantly but it made my face glow and took away my sleep crease .definately give this a try i haven't heard anyone talking about horseradish but it works.Just get the kind at your local store that is crushed and put it on in a circular motion ,leave it on for a few minutes and rinse."
[YEA]08/30/2008: Maria from Oceanside, CA replies: "I've had dark blotches on both sides of my face since I was pregnant 27 years ago. I've spent so much time and money without any possitive results. I have been washing my face with baking soda and using horseradish nightly for two weeks, not only has the color lighten but the big blotches are breaking up into smaller sections. I can now apply light make up and cover my blotches. I give a big thumbs up to horseradish."
09/29/2008: Nina from Curacao, Netherlands Antilles replies: "How did you use the horseradish, how much horseradish (I have ordered organic horseradish powder) and how long do you leave it on your skin?"
09/29/2008: Steve (1bodysurfer
gmail.com) from Irvine, CA replies: "Horseradish plant for general health!
That is great news about the horseradish working on your skin. I've recently been taking the horseradish plant internally, for all kinds of detoxing and cleansing. I have a squamous cell carcinoma on my shoulder that has practically gone away since I've been taking Moringa. I'm excited about that. I've had others surgically excised, but this seems to be shrinking rapidly and about to disappear. Search for Moringa in Google, since there is a lot of information and best of luck!! Steve"
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4 YEA
[YEA] 06/27/2008: Rita from Toronto, Canada writes: "Hydrogen Peroxide is wonderful. I tried hydrogen peroxide to brush my teeth, and it is very good, my breath is clear and my teeth are shining! and I have melasma on my cheek, I just tried several days to apply it on my face and I found the colour faded. I love this one."
[YEA]07/20/2008: Eva from Brampton, Canada replies: "I have been taking MSM and various suppliments such as zinc and Vitamin E for 6 months. However when i started using the Hydrogen Peroxide twice daily along with White Daisy Extract creams (Aloette or Garden Of Wisdom which is 1/4 of the price) it made a dramatic dirfference. Thanks for your wonderful advice. Unbelieveable that something so common could work!!! Eva"
10/22/2008: Gina from La Crosse, WI replies: "Can anyone tell me if you are using straight hydrogen peroxide or if you are mixing it equally with water? Thanks!"
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[YEA] 01/18/2008: Jennifer from Carrollton, VA writes: "I tried the Hydrogen Peroxide for Melasma: I've done 5 treatments, 20 minutes on the affected areas and it has substancially faded. I have it quite bad on forehead, cheek area, upper lip. I have also done the glycolic peels, Tri-Luma cream, etc. with no results. I am amazed this is working, and trying to determine if I can continue this to control the melasma."
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[YEA] 07/01/2007: Janine from Atlanta, GA writes: "I have started to use H202 on the brown sun spots on my left cheek after reading on Earth Clinic that it would fade them. Last night was the 2nd night. I took a cotton ball and soaked it in h202 and then held it to the area for about 15 minutes. Can report that after 2 nights they look like they are fading. Will report back."
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04/08/2008: Lisa from Santa Fe, New Mexico writes: "I've read all your suggestions and thoughts about melasma. I must admit, this is the most feedback I've seen thus far! I too suffer from this disgusting patchy face look. I have it on my cheeks, forehead and upperlip just like most of you. I've tried creams, OTC and prescription, the only thing that faded was my money! I've tried Apple cider vinegar and currently trying a cream with "tepezcohuite" a mexican remedy. So far its been 3 days and I know I must give it some time, I wanted to wake up and see instant results but thats dreaming. I plan to give it 4-6 months of fair trying. I'll keep you posted on how its working for me. if all else fails, I'm interested in the hydrogen peroxide remedy. Has anybody heard about laser tx? I'm getting desperate that I'm thinking about that route. I'm at my wits end with melasma. I feel people are concentrating on my melasma rather than me"
04/09/2008: Sandy from Bangalore, India replies: "Reply to Lisa.
My aunt had melasma. She started doing Kapalbhati pranayam and the melasma reduced within a few weeks and went away completely in a couple of months. In India, yoga master Ramdev Baba's style of doing kapalbhati Pranayam is the most popular. Here is the link to see how it is done:
http://knowyoga.org/tiki-index.php?page=Kapal Bhati Pranayam
If you do it, do write back in a month to let us all know if your melasma has faded. Good wishes! (I do kapalbhati everyday for other health benefits and like Ramdev Baba says, it seems to cure all problems.)"
08/11/2008: Laurence from Granger, Indiana replies: "To Sandy from Bangalore: I have started doing Kapalbhati as you recommend. I watched the link you gave and I would like to know if you or your aunt do kapalbhati every day? once or several times a day? and how long 5, 10, 15 mn?"
08/13/2008: Sandy from Bangalore, India replies: "To Laurence from Granger, Indiana:
Yes Laurence, I and my aunt (my mom too, and a whole lot of other family members) do kapalbhati regularly.
(Swami Ramdev's yoga is currently a big craze in India, and he has millions of followers).
When we started doing, we did it for 2 minutes at a time, and three-two times per day. So you can do it multiple times, but always on an empty stomach (about 3-4 hours after you last ate). As we got more accustomed to doing it, we increased the period gradually...eg. now we are able to do kapalbhati for 20 minutes each time, twice a day. However, doing 20 minutes per day once (or 10 minutes twice a day hence 20 minutes totally per day) is also enough.
Please take care to do kapalbhati (forceful exhalation) with medium force--it should be more forceful than normal breathing, but not so forceful that it makes you feel giddy.
Good luck! When you get results, please post back on earthclinic about the success. Kapalbhati is a Master Pranayam that cures multiple problems...so if it helped you in any other way, other than melasma, please write feedback on that also."
08/17/2008: Laurence from Granger, USA replies: "To Sandy from Bangalore: Thank you very much Sandy for your information. I really appreciate it. I have been doing Kapalbhati for just a few minutes per day and I am going to increase doing it. I will write my feedback after a few weeks."
10/07/2008: Vedika from Kolkata, India replies: "Dear Sandy from Bangalore,
I started doing Kapalbhatti Pranayaam 4 days back. Yesterday, i found this post on net and was really happy about it as it increased my hopes. You must be knowing that Melasma is a very depressing condition.
I would like to know how long did your aunt have Melasma and where all? Was it in the superficial layer of the skin or had it moved to inner layer too?
Please answer whatever you can, i will be very grateful... I will also keep posting if i see any improvements....."
10/10/2008: Sandy from Bangalore, India replies: "Vedika,
You are lucky you are in India as you can view Aastha channel for indepth information on yoga and pranayam (see Ramdev Baba's yoga programs).
To answer your questions....
1. My aunt had melasma on her cheeks (I dont know where else she had).She had melasma for almost 2 years, and it was quite prominent. I think it took her around 6-8 months of Pranayam to completely rid herself of melasma.
2. I suggest you do 10 minutes of Anulom-vilom pranayam after doing Kapalbhati.
Ramdev Baba says that when you do Kapalbhati and Anulom-Vilom pranayams (the master pranayams) daily, it will regenerate the entire body in 9 months, and rid you of all diseases.Good Luck, and please update on what helped you finally, onto this website, as it will help many others."
10/10/2008: Vedika (vedika123/@/live.com) from Kolkata, India replies: "Thank you Sandy. I am really grateful. I am doing both the prayanams since one week and i will keep posting if i see any changes..... My melasma is on the upperlips and not extremely prominent but it is in such a place that it really makes me feel bad. Also, i do not have any other medical problems. So, i hope its might work sooner on me......
Actually after starting these prayanams i am feeling a lot better mentally and despite the melasma, my face is glowing .. i am very hopeful about the results..."
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MELASMA CREAMS THAT DON'T WORK
[YEA] 01/15/2008: Judy (Judysan43@hotmail.com) from Parkforestt, Illinois writes: "re: Melasma -- I have tried Triluma cream which did not work and it cost 100.00 dollars.of which my money was returned. It also depends on the color of your malasma. Is it gray or brown. I tried Asalax cream and Flora roberts for hypermentation at Carson Pirie Scott a department store in Chicago. Producta by Avon for hyperpementation and nothing worked. I wish someone could help fade this away. Some of the remedies you suggest are worth trying but where do you get them. You never say. Please write back."
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1 NAY 3 SIDE EFFECTS
[SIDE EFFECTS] 08/10/2008: Denise from Brooklyn, New York writes: "I just started taking 1000mg of msm with 1000 mg of vitamin c and GSE to treat my melasma but today my third day I am feeling kind of strange, anxious, restless and nauseos I dont know much about this supplement and am a little concerned. As much as i want to get rid of the melasma my health is first does anyone know if this passes I already suffer from insomnia and this is making it worse. Would the vitamin c and GSE work on its own?"
EC: For more information about some of the common side effects from MSM, please click here.
08/12/2008: Joy from Columbia, SC replies: "If you are having adverse side effects you should stop taking it. I have been taking 2,000 mg, and GSC and don't have this problem. Your health is much more important."
09/08/2008: Rosalyn from Hillsboro, Oregon replies: "I'm curious about MSM, but got scared of the side effects. Anxiety/panic attacts. I suffer from melasma too. Took the hepaclenz but had headaches and anxiety effect. I'm trying GSE for now and use vit.c cleanser and serum. Hope it works..spend lots of money for cures externally, I too believed that nothing works even the most expensive creams, laser, microdermabrasion.. etc."
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[NAY] 07/21/2008: Lisa from SF, CA writes: "MSM sort of a warning... I started taking MSM a few weeks ago, in the hopes of getting rid of, or at least fading, the melasma I have. I started with 2000mg capsules in the a.m. Then increased to 3000mg, and last week to 4000 mg., a combo of tablets and powder (just because I had both, so mixed 'em up). I have not noticed a difference in the melasma, (I am applying topically, too) but have experienced sleeplessness. I already have a problem with insomnia, so this is not good. I noticed the sleeplessness got really bad after increasing to 4000mg., so I've cut down to 3000mg. I really noticed the increase in energy when I started taking the MSM, despite a lack of sleep. About 2 months ago, I began taking SAM-E for mood, and it seems to have helped, but that is also a sulphur compound, so perhaps that with the MSM is too much?"
[SIDE EFFECTS]07/23/2008: Laura from Wichita, KS replies: "To Lisa from SF, CA. So that's why I've not been sleepy! For 5 days in a row I was waking up at 3 & 4am. Wide eyed and didn't even want to think about lying down. I've been taking 4000mg of msm for about 3 weeks now. I haven't noticed any difference in my melasma or my skin. I also don't really have an appetite. I think I've lost about 5 lbs. But needed to. that was my 5lbs lingering from Christmas. I'm still on the 2000 mg vit c a day as well. I'm not sure if I should continue with the msm and give it another month or not. I thought I would notice a small difference. But nothing yet."
[SIDE EFFECTS]10/09/2008: Lisa from SF, CA replies: "I wrote about my MSM experience on 7/21/08. I had to cut down to 2000mg/day, after days of very bad insomnia. I was taking 2x my normal dose of Ambien to sleep, and still was not sleeping well. While taking 4000 mg of MSM, I noticed my hands were incredibly dry, and the veins (in my hands) were much more pronounced than usual. I already drink 1 gal. + of water per day, but while taking the 4000 mg of MSM, I found myself dehydrated even when drinking up to 2 gallons of water a day. The dehydration than led to a bladder infection!
So, taking 2000 mg of MSM for a few months now. Recently began using MSM in a topical vitamin C serum I make, and found insomnia has worsened again! Didn't even occur to me that it could be the topical MSM, but the onset of worsened isomnia corresponds with the addition of MSM to the serum! It's what led me back to this board. Also increased dehydration. Has anybody found topical MSM to have side effects?
BTW: Have not noticed any improvement of melasma (my reason for taking the MSM), nor have I noticed any other benefits. My hair and nails are no stronger or healthier, and I've had no decrease in joint pain. Not sure if I should even continue with the MSM!"
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2 YEA
[YEA] 02/13/2008: Stefy from Toronto, Ontario writes: "I read Carries review of using the apple cider vinegar and MSM, in 4 short weeks I already see an improvment. Its odd because I just never thought it was something INTERNAL. Once I grasped that concept, it became less expensive, less invasive and I can FINALLY start to see improvement."
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[YEA] 01/20/2008: Carrie from Mississauga, Canada writes: "I have been suffering from melasma for about 4 years now. It's on my forehead,and both my cheeks. I have tried everything from bleaches, cosmelan to IPL. Everything is short term. Just as recent as December, 2007, I started taking MSM, vitamin C as well as applying apple cider vinegar on my face. The results are amazing. For the first time in 4 years I can actually say my face has improved and I don't mind going out without makeup. It's only been 6 weeks and I intend on using this remedy to see if it'll get even better. I do hope my experience and information sharing will help someone out there, that has melasma. Good luck!!"
01/28/2008: Debbie (MusicJoy1@aol.com) from New York, NY replies: "To Carrie from Missassagua, Canada: How much MSM are you using? The crystals mixed in water? How many teaspoons per day? How much Vitamin C per day? Is it that you are applying Apple Cider Vinegar only at night? Sorry for all the questions! I'm so curious. I was recently in the Hospital for an infection and the nurse attending infiltrated an IV into my arm, and as a result I have some dark spots on both arms which really, really bother me. I've tried Dermadoctor's Immaculate Correction, Peter Thomas Roth's Potent Botanical cream and now Meladerm with little results. I just want these gone as soon as possible because the Hospital was traumatic enough... to look at hyperpigmented skin on both arms just makes me so sad."
02/09/2008: Grace from Chicago, ILL replies: "to Carrie from Mississauga, Canada: I also suffer from melasma for about 5 years, and try everything too, and nothing works, I would like to know about how much of msm and vitamin c you take and how many times a day? and when you start seen results? I really appreciate if you answer me back. Thanks."
02/13/2008: Carrie from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada replies: "MSM- Answering back to Grace and Debbie.
First of all, I'd like you to know, that I understand how you feel. For me, melasma on my face, makes me feel very unattractive and very insecure. I got to a point where nothing was working for me so I started researching it on my own. By all means, my knowledge on melasma is limited and I researched and read quite a bit before I started taking MSM.
MSM is available in capsule, powder or crystal form. Make sure it's a pure brand. I myself take the capsule form. I take 3 capsules of MSM (1000 mg) everyday. When you take the MSM, take it after you have eaten and don't take all 3 at once. Take them throughout the day. Make sure you consult your GP before taking the MSM, especially if you are on any prescribed medication. Be cautious and don't mix without consulting a doctor first. You do not want it to interfere with other medications, like aspirin or blood pressure meds.
I also take 1 to 2 chewable vitamin C tablets (500 mg) a day.
As for the apple cider vinegar, I apply it once a week (if that). Once you wash it off, your face feels very soft. I don't use it that often any more. I've also increased my antioxidant intake. I eat everything from blueberries, kale (green veggies), and green tea, pomegranate (my favourite), red wine, etc... Since MSM (Methyl-Sulphonyl-Methane) is a powerful antioxidant, I thought I'd start eating a lot more antioxidant foods. All in all, my face is looking better and better. I honestly can't believe it. Maybe this is a result of everything combined; I really don't know. What I do know is that adding more antioxidants to my diet, can only help me in the long run. As for the MSM, it appears to be safe and non-toxic. MSM is also a very good mineral for healthy hair, skin, nails and joints. Good luck and don't give up. I started all this on December 3rd /07 and 2 months later my melasma has slowly disappeared. I'm feeling and looking happier everyday. Just remember, for some of us it may take longer; don't give up.
I do hope I've answered some of your questions."
02/16/2008: Grace (graceli_w@yahoo.com) from Chicago, ILL replies: "to Carrie from Mississauga, Canada. I would like to thank you so much for writing me back, it's a great help! God Bless You!! I'm taking MSM & Vitamin C since 01/25/08 and haven't seen any results yet. I also try to apply ACV but my skin got red end I got scared so I didn't apply it anymore. I believe it's because my skin is very sensitive for all the lotion that I have used in the past. Didn't your skin react to it since you have done the same thing? How did you apply it in the bigining and how many times anyways? Did You used creme and sun block after applying ACV? thanks again.Sorry about all this question. If you can contact me I'll appreciate it."
02/19/2008: Carrie from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada replies: "re: MSM/ ACV- Melasma Cure-Follow Up Answer to Grace. I'm glad you found the information helpful. I've only applied the ACV 4-5 times. I left it on my face for 15 minutes and then washed it off. If your skin reacted to it, don't use it anymore. When I used it, I found that by the next day, my face was not as red. As for sunblock, I wear it all the time; I don't go out without it anymore. Once you've taken the MSM for 3 months, let me know if you've noticed any changes. Just to let you know, other people noticed the subtle changes of my melasma before I did. Be patient and don't give up. Remember, try and include more antioxidants to your diet."
03/18/2008: Deborah from Albuquerque, NM replies: "Carrie from Mississauga, Canada, How has the apple cider been working for you? I hope well, I've also been tring the apple cider but no results yet I know I want a miracle overnight which will never happen. Is it still lighting your melasma? Was your melasma dark? Sorry so many questions but I've tried almost everything you can thing of. Some day I feel like an ugly duckling with this dirt looking stuff on my face. Hope to hear from you."
04/01/2008: Carrie from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada replies: "Answering Deborah from Albuquerque: I have stopped using the AC vinegar. I’m taking just the MSM and the Vitamin C. The process is going a little slower now but I’m going to keep taking it. It’s gradual but effective and I’m looking at the bigger picture. In a year from now, my face will be better than it was. I realize it’s hard because that’s the way I feel at times-like I have a stained dirty face. Try MSM! Hope this helps."
05/17/2008: Veronique from Los Angeles, USA replies: "Melasma- Is Azelaic acid considered natural?-- my dermatologist prescribed it for melasma -- my condition appears to be from copper excess and I am concerned about the yeast being a component/dervative in azelaic acid. Woud you consider it natural? Thanks"
07/01/2008: Lupe from Palmdale, CA replies: "What is MSM?"
EC: More info here: http://www.earthclinic.com/Supplements/MSM.html
07/12/2008: Kristin from Wichita, KS, USA replies: "Lupe, In the above written e-mails from Carrie, she states that MSM stands for Methyl-Sulphonyl-Methane."
07/19/2008: Sally from Wolcottville, IN replies: "A message for: Carrie from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada --Thank you so much for the information you have posted. It has helped me a lot and I hope you continue to post. I have really enjoyed reading the info on this site!!"
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2 YEA
[YEA] 05/01/2008: Joy from Columbia, SC writes: "Hello Ladies - I wanted to let you know I found all of your posts very helpful. I have been dealing with this disease for 4 years now, and it was prior to my children. It has really flared up since getting pregnant 2 years ago. My little girl is now 8 months old and Friday 04/25 I found this site with your comments. I have been using the MSM 1,000 MG for about a month or so but only taking it once, also I have been doing 500mg of Vit.C once a day. I have went up on both I am now taking the MSM - 1,000MG 3 times a day and the Vit. C 2 times a day, and in less than a week I have seen dramatic results. I am so happy to have found something that is helping! Thank you all! I wanted to post this for encouragement to all! I am also using Proactiv and I think it helps lighten it. One more thing I put on a 50spf everyday! Boy Oh Boy how wonderful at last some results. "
06/05/2008: Bret (patientadvocate2@yahoo.com) from Phoenix, Arizona replies: "With all the research coming out suggesting infectious process are causing autoimmune diseases the MSM and Vitamin C equation is interesting.
Question, what is the cheapest form of MSM. Answer,...DMSO,...$6.00 per month.
PhD Biochemist Dr. David Gregg explains that DMSO actually breaks down into oxygen salts. MSM readily attaches to oxygen. The two salts then maintain exact equilibrium to one another so as oxygen is stripped off the sulphur portion it is passed to the MSM solute, and vise versa. This action works like an oxygen pump. To see the exact chemical reaction, go to Dr. Gregg's website at Krysalis.net.
Also, vitamin c, donates electrons to the mitochondria creating electrical potential that drives oxidative phosphorylation. (oxygen based metabolism.). Furthermore, vitamin c, in higher doses attaches to Rna strands of viruses and stops replication in its tracks. This does not kill viruses but it does cause brief dormancy. Vitamin c dosing should start at a minimum of 5,000 mg. per day.
WHY? Your body will absorb 200 mg and hour without spillage into urine. This comes to nearly 5,000 mg in 24 hours.
To get DMSO, any feed store will have it. It comes in a gel or liquid. It can be applied directly to lesions. Side affect is an oyster or garlic taste in the mouth. I had a bad toothe ache once, caused by anaerobic bacteria. I was taking garlic to keep the tooth from abcessing. I did find some MSM on sale for clearance at Walgreens so I bought it.
When taking MSM with garlic I only needed to take half the garlic I was using. Why? Sulphur in garlic is found usually in sulfate form SO4, Just like with DMSO, the MSM stripped off the oxyen from the sulfate and donated it to the cell, (theoretically.) No other chemical explanation could I find.
Since then other people with toothaches were given these substances. They all reported similar findings, and they felt that the msm made the garlic work better. Oxygen is important in this instance as anaerobic organisms whether it be Staph. or Mycobacteria, or viruses, all hate oxygen."
06/05/2008: Mary from Laurinburg, NC replies: "i would like to ask anyone if msm & vitamin c will work on melasma if it is a combination of epidermis & dermal melasma. please post question thanks, mary"
08/11/2008: Denise from Brooklyn , New York replies: "Okay so I am feeling a litlle better about this MSM thing and will continue to take it now that I know it has no serious side effects. I have been taking the 1000mg with vitamin c for about a week and I am ready to up the dosage begining today I will increase the MSM by 1000mg. Oh and I am taking GSE 3 times a day in caplet but to my dismay it is grape seed not grapefruit. However I know it is an antioxidant as well and will continue to take till I find the grapefruit.
Can someone tell me how long it takes to see some results? I am also using a topical cream by the body shop called the moisture white it contains licorice extract dont know how much it lightning the mealsma but it definitely gives a smoother appearance, I have been suffering with this for over 10 years and it is really holding me back I feel ugly and insecure due to it.
I would like to say I am so happy with this site so informative and I dont feel so alone. Hey has anyone tried yogurt or lemon?? What about Cosmelan anyone had sucssesful results with it?"
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[YEA] 06/20/2007: Mona from London, UK writes: "I have tried MSM powder with Vitamin C 1000mg daily to successfully clear Melasma on my cheeks.
Prior to this I tried many over the counter remedies with no or little results.
I would recommend this method if you want fast results:
1. 1 X 1000 mg capsule/tablet or 1/4 level teaspoon powder/crystals for 5 days with breakfast
2. 2 X 1000 mg capsule/tablet or 1/2 level teaspoon powder/crystals for 5 days with breakfast
3. 3 X 1000 mg capsule/tablet or 1 level teaspoon powder/crystals for 5 days with breakfast
But its best to start slow and work up to a steady dose and you can go up to 5 x 1000mg.
Some friends found that they were more comfortable increasing their dose at a much more steady rate than that outlined above and they may have taken a few months to reach their optimal dose. It is wise to not rush in order to allow the body to adjust properly.
Hope this helps someone! "
07/22/2008: Jessica from Bridgewater, New Jersey replies: "Mona, I would like to know how long it took you get your melasma to disappear after you start taking MSM andVitamin C ? Thanks!
Jessica"
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1 YEA
[YEA] 10/23/2008: Beatrice from Los Angeles, CA, USA writes: "I just turned 44 and I have had Melasma since I was 30. It started on my upper lip and progressed to my cheeks, nose and chin. It has been pretty severe over the years. I have tried everything from hydroquinone (which made it darker) to lasers (which made it go nearly black and it took forever to lighten to the original shade of brown) and everything in between. Cosmelan had given me the best results, but it does adversely affect my skin texture and it eventually darkens again anyway.
I have been taking MSM, Glutathione, Vitamin C and GSE [grapefruit seed extract] for about two months now. I went through a detox period which included headaches, fatigue and a little bit of breakout. This was pretty bad for about the first month, but because my skin was lightening so much I kept on. I have been able to gradually increase my dose of MSM to 12,000 mg a day, 6,000 in the A.M. and 6,000 at night. I take 10,000 mg of vitamin c spread out in three doses, 2,000 mg of Glutathione mid-day and 15-20 drops of GSE (in a little bit of grapefruit juice to hide the taste) two to three times a day. My spots faded pretty rapidly at first and I have to say, I am thrilled! They are about 70% gone now. I seem to have hit a plateau but I am reticent to increase my doses as I already feel that they are quite high. I just started using MSM topically to see if that will help. I put 1 teaspoon of the powder into my face cream and my skin is peeling but not at all sore or red. Does anyone know if this is a normal reaction? I'm going to keep trying this and I will keep you posted on my progress."
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1 YEA
[YEA] 08/12/2008: Rebecca (rebeccaereid@yahoo.ca) from Waterloo, ON, Canada writes: "I started using MSM 100mg twice a day, Vitamin C 1000 mg twice a day and GSE [GRAPEFRUIT SEED EXTRACT] 15 drops twice daily, along with Hydrogen Peroxide (similar to using astringent). I am more than pleased with the results. I have Melasma on the side of my cheek & down along the jawline, upper lip, forehead and chest. I have started to see a significant change in my skin. Some areas are breaking up and others are fading. I have had Melasma since my early 20's, but only a few spots, which increased drastically in my subsequent 3 pregnancies. Thanks for the suggestions - I wore virtually no make up to Church on Sunday, which is a first. In fact I don't really like make-up and would rather not wear it. My chest which is sun damaged as well, is looking smoother and lighter. I looked into this site, with hopes of heading towards my 40th birthday (which is in September) looking and feeling better and I am well on my way."
11/08/2008: Alicia from Salem, OR replies: "Hi thank you for posting this wounderful tips. I had melasma for over two years, since my last pregnancy.
I starded taking MSM, vitamin C, GSE, and at the same time I am doing a liver detox, I have noticed that the spots around my cheeks are not as dark but, still have not dissapered completely. How are you using the H202, and how often?"
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3 YEA
[YEA] 10/20/2008: Kim from Discovery Bay, CA writes: "I found the biggest improvement with Mandelic/Malic acid. I first used Nucelle's SPA System and saw big benefits, but because the price, I switched to Mama Lotion.
Still, I didn't get rid of the melasma completely. I was having other problems too, such as acne, stomach problems, numbness and migraines, etc. so I saw a nutritionist who put me on a food plan to cleanse my system. It was only $120 to see the nutritionist and I've been on this plan for a couple of months. I notice HUGE improvements overall. I feel wonderful! She suggested fasting, but I haven't done it yet.
I pretty much cut everything out of my diet (wheat, dairy, sugar), I have great recipes to follow which contain mostly fruits, vegetables, brown rice or brown rice pasta and raw nuts (some lean meats). I try to buy mostly organic when I can afford it. I have my fruit in my morning smoothie and I add Nature's Plus Source of Life daily and KYO green. At night I take flaxseed oil, milk thistle and probiotics.
I think you not only have to treat the skin on the outside, but on the inside too! I wish I could share my food plan with all of you!!!
Good luck!"
10/20/2008: Denise (mojodede@msn.com) from Brooklyn, New York replies: "It was great to hear how your new diet has helped you, I always new that the proper foods are the foundation for overall well being. However you did not mention if the diet made a difference in your melasma is it gone ? has it been reduced? I am a melasma sufferer myself and would do anything to get rid of this ghastly condition."
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[YEA] 09/30/2008: Denise from Medina, USA writes: "Hi, I have tried numerous suggestions from this site to help my melasma. I have had this for over 12 years now. I have had The Fraxel laser done and it lightened it, but came back this past summer. I use SPF 45. I am taking MSM 3 x a day, along with 2 Vit. C. and drinking Grapefruit Extract 3 x a day. Not sure what helped, good news is it has lightened and not become darker. I recently purchased a product called Environ their Evenescence line of products is for Melasma. This product would be $83.00 from my Dermatologist. I bought it at Firstforskincare.com for $45.00. This product is working. I highly suggest trying this product and within 2-4 weeks you will see a difference. I hope this helps. Thank you to everyone for all the great ideas."
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[YEA] 08/12/2008: In_Owe from CARSON, CA writes: "I have a very sensitive skin. I suffered from acne "infestation" in my teen-age years, and left some marks of tiny craters on my face. In short, my pores are visible to others at a few-feet distance.
I have read most of the articles posted here and other websites about brown spots / melasma / age spot. I have been suffering from this skin disorder due to over sun-exposure which happened more than 10 yrs ago. Like everyone else, I have tried a lot of treatments with the exception of laser cure because I can't afford it. I have NOT stopped looking for the best possible therapy that would help at least fade my blemishes which are very visible on cheeks. I am thankful for all the contributions made in this site, and I have tried few of them. I came across this website in May, and since then, became more EAGER to find possible ways, and cure for my brown spots. Knowing that you are not the only one suffering from this skin disorder somehow made me more hopeful than discourage. I've wanted to write and share something since May, but I waited until there was a visible sign of change on my face. This is the account of my 3 months self-therapy:
Every night (as always), I sleep with a clean face. Since May, I have tried using Organic ACV (with Mother) on my face as my toner. On the first month, I diluted ACV with water and apply the mixture on my face using cotton. During the 1st month, my skin peeled off. For few weeks, my facial skin was so tender because of ACV, that it became a mild sore. To my amazement, the portions of skin that were peeled off remained my true skin color without the brown spot after it got healed (from being tender). When my face got used to the ACV, I stopped diluting it. Every night, I still apply undiluted ACV on my face. My friends who didn't see me for at least 3 months noticed that the brown spots were lighter. I also tried making my own moisturizer using Organic at least 98% Organic Aloe Vera, Vit. E, and few drops of Organic Tea Tree Oil, and Lavander Oil. From time to time, I replace the oils with Jojoba. Orally, I am taking Glutatione which is according to my research is considered the best, and mother of all anti-oxidants. I eat as much as possible organic food, and drink ACV tonic regularly 3x a Day (I use the brand Bragg). If I could, I avoid eating pork, junk food, and too much processed food. I rather eat room temperature food than have it warmed in microwave.
I am also using Juice Beauty moisturizer with SPF 20 during day time. So far, this is one of the best products I have tried with more than 90% organic ingredients. Sometimes, labels say organic, but the percentage is another thing. (This also applies when I am looking for food label. So, be careful). I put on Bare Escentuals Mineral Foundation/Powder to matte my oily skin. Some researches mentioned that whatever we put or apply on our body, about 60% or more is absorbed by our skin - meaning that's what comes in our body.
For the last three months, my skin and health has improved a lot. I cannot ascribe the improvement to ONLY one thing. I guess it is a combination of all of the above. I am happier with what I see, and feel. I guess there is no short cut to everything good. We just have to be patient. Most of all, we have to have a positive and good mental attitude. The spiritual side of my life helps me a lot in achieving a positive and healthy attitude in life. Remember, what we see on the mirror is just skin deep. The true beauty lies inside us - our soul and spirit."
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1 YEA
[YEA] 06/26/2008: Angel from Gainesville, FL writes: "Melasma: I've ethnic skin and due to chronic acne I had post inflammatory hyper pigmentation as well. I got microderm done on my face 4 times at 1-2 weeks interval, without realizing that my skin was too sensitive. I used retin A as well. It left me with dark patches on both sides of my cheeks. A dermatologist said it was melasma. after that I tried many things: lot of sunscreen, azeleic acid, lemon turmeric. but nothing seemed to work. infact I damaged my skin more by being aggressive on it. I decided to give my skin some time. I stopped using too many things on it. totally avoided the sun. and finally when it wasn't very sensitive I started using papaya for exfoliation. i scoop out one table spoon from the ripened papaya and mash it in my hands and slather on my face. if i want deep exfoliation i leave it for 20 mins (else 5 mins) and then rub my face with palms in circular motion. i can see dead skin cells from face in my palms.afterwards i apply fresh aloe juice and then rosehip oil and I'm very happy with the results. the hyperpigmentation is not fully cured but it has faded quite a lot. i still avoid sun. I'm not sure if it was melasma or only post inflammatory hyper pigmentation. whatever it was papaya has lightened it through gentle exfoliation and i'm hoping for great results in future ( I have used it only for 2 weeks). Hope it may also help someone. It doesn't treat hyper pigmentation but just exfoliates effectively. so other lightening agents can still be used along with it. Good Luck."
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1 YEA
[YEA] 04/12/2008: Sandra from Pensacola, FL writes: "Please read below - Melasma is a yeast fungus overgrowth caused by too much Copper in the body due to birth control pills and/or a vegetarian diet. (Moisturizers in creams and makeup feeds the yeast)
Pure aloe vera gel applied 3 - 4 times a day to the face and supplements of MSM, Zinc, Calcium, iodine,liquid from kelp and vitamin C will purge the body of excess copper and your melasma will dissapear. Avoid all foods high in copper. After it is gone - Highly recommend taking an excellent Multi Vitamin w/o copper, but with all of the anti copper supplements in the vitamin and probiotics and digestive enzymes daily.
Copper Toxicity Syndrome
Other Contributing Causes of Copper Toxicity
The following factors are also major contributing factors to copper toxicity: use of birth control pills, copper intrauterine devices, antibiotic therapy, stress, strict vegetarian diets and refined food diets which are deficient in zinc.
Excerpt
Do you know anyone who suffers from headaches, fatigue, insomnia, depression, spaciness, learning disorders or premenstrual syndrome? These can be symptoms of a copper imbalance.
Copper, an essential trace mineral, is vitally important for both physical and mental health. It has been studied for years, including at government laboratories. However, its importance for health is still largely unappreciated. The following is but an introduction. The author is deeply indebted to Dr. Paul C. Eck, an avid copper researcher.
COPPER'S ROLE IN THE BODY
Copper is critical for energy production in the cells. It is also involved in nerve conduction, connective tissue, the cardiovascular system and the immune system. Copper is closely related to estrogen metabolism, and is required for women's fertility and to maintain pregnancy. Copper stimulates production of the neurotransmitters epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine. It is also required for monoamine oxidase, an enzyme related to serotonin production.
It is possible to become copper-toxic or copper-deficient, and there is a condition called biounavailable copper. In the latter, copper is present, but cannot be utilized. Toxicity and biounavailability are seen most often. This article uses the words copper imbalance when more than one situation is possible.
Physical conditions associated with copper imbalance include arthritis, fatigue, adrenal burnout, insomnia, scoliosis, osteoporosis, heart disease, cancer, migraine headaches, seizures, fungal and bacterial infections including yeast infection, gum disease, tooth decay, skin and hair problems and female organ conditions including uterine fibroids, endometriosis and others.
Mental and emotional disorders related to copper imbalance include spaciness, depression, mood swings, fears, anxiety, phobias, panic attacks, violence, autism, schizophrenia, and attention deficit disorder. Copper deficiency is associated with aneurysms, gout, anemia and osteoporosis.
Interestingly, the symptoms of premenstrual tension are identical to the symptoms of copper imbalance.
SOURCES OF COPPER
Today, many children are born with excessive tissue copper. It is passed from high-copper mothers to their children through the placenta.
Stress from any cause contributes to copper imbalance. Stress depletes the adrenal glands and lowers the zinc level in the body. Whenever zinc becomes deficient, copper tends to accumulate. Our soil is low in zinc. Refined sugar, white rice and white flour have been stripped of their zinc. The trend toward vegetarianism reduces zinc in the diet, since red meat is the best dietary source of zinc.
Copper is found in many foods, particularly vegetarian proteins such as nuts, beans, seeds and grains. Meats contain copper, but it is balanced by zinc which competes for its absorption. Chocolate is high in copper. A desire for copper may help explain chocolate cravings.
Another source of copper is drinking water that remained in copper water pipes, or copper added to your water supply. During a recent dry summer, several Oregon cities added copper sulfate to their reservoirs to reduce algae growth. Accident and disease rates increased.
Other sources of copper are copper cookware, dental materials, vitamin pills, fungicides and pesticides residues on food, copper intra-uterine devices and birth control pills. Mrs. Robinson and her 6-month-old, breast-fed baby both began to experience hair loss. The cause was a daily prenatal vitamin containing 4 milligrams of copper, far too much for this high-copper mother.
Deficiencies of manganese, iron, B-vitamins and vitamin C can cause copper to accumulate. Adrenal hormones cause the liver to produce ceruloplasmin, the main copper binding protein in the body. Therefore, sluggish liver or weak adrenal glands may cause copper to build up in the tissues.
THE COPPER PERSONALITY
There is a high copper personality. Positive traits include a warm, caring, sensitive, emotional nature, often with artistic orientation and a child-like quality. Often high-copper people are young-looking. Many traditional feminine traits are associated with copper such as softness, gentleness and intuitiveness.
When the personality is not fully integrated or the copper becomes too high, negative traits show up. These include spaciness, racing thoughts, living in a dream world, naiveté, childishness, excessive emotions, sentimentality, a tendency to depression, fearfulness, hidden anger and resentments, phobias, psychosis and violence. Artists, inventors and other high-copper types often "live on the edge", in part due to their high copper level.
The copper personality tends to accumulate copper easily. Copper functions as a psychological defense mechanism. It causes one to detach slightly from reality. This provides relief from stress for the sensitive individual. It works well as long as the copper does not become too high. Very high copper can cause a psychotic break from reality, a type of schizophrenia.
An 18-year old schizophrenic patient had a hair copper level of 40 mg% (normal is 2.5 mg %). She hallucinated and attempted suicide twice while in the Scottsdale Camelback Mental Hospital. When her copper decreased to normal through a diet and supplement program, her symptoms disappeared and she has remained well.
COPPER AND SOCIETY
Is it possible that our mineral balance affects our attitudes? Copper is called the 'psychic' mineral, the 'intuitive' mineral, and a 'feminine' mineral because it is so important for the female reproductive system. Its level generally parallels that of estrogen. While many factors influence our attitudes and values, the rise in tissue copper levels in both men and women in the past twenty years parallels renewed interest in feminism, in psychic and intuitive knowledge, and 'nurturing' movements such as environmentalism.
COPPER AND SEXUALITY
Women tend to have higher levels of copper than men. Women also have more symptoms related to copper imbalance. These include yeast infections, migraine headaches, adult acne, various menstrual symptoms and depression.
Copper-toxic women are often estrogen dominant. They may benefit from progesterone therapy to help balance their hormones. Women with biounavailable copper are often low in estrogen. Their bodies are often more linear in shape. Of course, copper is not the only factor affecting hormones. Some pesticides, for example, mimic the effects of estrogen and can affect the hormone balance.
Men, by contrast, should be zinc-dominant. Zinc, a 'masculine' element, balances copper in the body, and is essential for male reproductive activity. Today, however, many men have symptoms of copper toxicity including depression, anxiety and other symptoms. Homosexuality may be related to copper levels.
COPPER AND CHILDREN
Children are often born with high copper levels. Young children are very sensitive and intuitive. They often lose some of their sensitivity and 'psychic abilities' as their copper levels diminish around age four.
Persistent elevated copper levels in children are common today. The problem often begins during gestation, when high-copper mothers pass on excessive copper (and often low zinc) to the fetus through the placenta. This is called congenital, rather than genetic high copper. It can be prevented by correcting one's copper metabolism before becoming pregnant. After birth, poor nutrition, stress in the home, and overuse of prescription drugs can aggravate a child's copper imbalance.
Copper imbalance in children is associated with delayed development, attention deficit disorder, anti-social and hyperactive behavior, autism, learning difficulties and infections such as ear infections.
VEGETARIAN DIETS
Excess copper interferes with zinc, a mineral needed to make digestive enzymes. Too much copper also impairs thyroid activity and the functioning of the liver. If severe enough, a person will become an obligatory vegetarian. This means they are no longer able to digest meat very well. Conversely, if one becomes a vegetarian for other reasons, most likely one's copper level will increase. Vegetarian proteins are higher in copper, and lower in zinc.
At times, the vegetarian orientation is health-producing. In many people, however, restricted diets do not work well. Fatigue, spaciness and other symptoms begin to appear. Many people, including the author, felt they were becoming more spiritual on a vegetarian diet, when in fact it was just copper poisoning! The taste for meat often returns when copper is brought into better balance.
Some people with high copper dislike all protein. They crave high-carbohydrate diets. Protein feels heavy or causes other symptoms. Eating protein stimulates glandular activity. This releases stored copper which causes the symptoms. However, these individuals usually need to eat protein. The symptoms will eventually disappear.
Copper-toxic individuals may also be drawn to sweets or salty foods due to adrenal insufficiency. Some sea salt is often beneficial. Sweets, including fruit juices, provide a temporary lift but may worsen the condition.
ADRENAL BURNOUT
Adrenal burnout, characterized by chronic fatigue and other symptoms, is often related to fear and copper imbalance. Although correcting emotional and other factors are necessary, improving the copper imbalance, supporting the adrenals and releasing fearful thoughts go hand in hand to restore optimum health.
COPPER AND ADDICTION
Compulsive behavior may be related to copper and the adrenals. Exercise, for example, stimulates the adrenals. This helps keep copper available and makes one feel better. If one stops exercising, unbound copper builds up and one may feel fatigue, mood swings and depression. In some people, this can create a compulsive need to exercise. Other ways to temporarily control copper toxicity include the use of caffeine or other stimulants.
Part of the appeal of cocaine, Ritalin and amphetamines may be their ability to help lower copper temporarily by stimulating the adrenals. Cadmium found in marijuana and cigarettes drives copper back into storage. These drugs may make one feel better by affecting the copper balance.
COPPER AND YEAST INFECTION
Our bodies use copper to help control the growth of yeast. This may be because copper favors aerobic metabolism. Copper is required for the electron transport system, where most of our cellular energy is produced. Yeast organisms use anaerobic metabolism.
Copper sulfate is often sprayed on crops to kill yeast and fungus. Copper is also used in some swimming pools and hot tubs to control yeast and bacterial growth.
When copper is out of balance, our bodies cannot control yeast overgrowth. This often led to chronic Candida albicans infections that are resistant to treatment.
DETECTING COPPER IMBALANCE
Blood, urine and even hair analysis may not reveal copper toxicity directly. Copper is stored mainly in the brain, liver and other organs, not in the blood or urine.
Challenge tests with a chelating agent such as EDTA may be used to detect excess copper. Several indirect indicators on a hair mineral test are also excellent to detect copper imbalance. These include a hair calcium level greater than about 100 mg%, a potassium level less than about 3 mg%, a sodium/potassium ratio less than 2.5:1, a zinc/copper ratio less than 6:1, an elevated mercury level or a copper level less than 1.0 mg%.
BALANCING COPPER
The author dealt with severe copper imbalance in himself and with many others for the past 18 years. Six methods are used to reduce copper in the tissues:
1) Reduce exposure to sources of copper.
2) Antagonists such as zinc, manganese and iron compete with copper for absorption and utilization. Vitamins B6 and folic acid may also be helpful. Selenium and cysteine may be helpful. Research indicates copper may be excreted by binding with glutathione and metallothionine which require these nutrients.
3) Chelators of copper include vitamin C, molybdenum and sulfur-containing amino acids. These bind and remove copper. More powerful chelators may be used, but can have side effects.
4) Enhance the eliminative organs, such as the liver, skin and colon.
5) Balance body chemistry, enhance energy production and improve adrenal gland activity. To support the adrenal glands, avoid sweets, eat protein with each meal, and supplement your diet with vitamins A, C and E, manganese, zinc and B-complex vitamins. Animal protein is very helpful due to its higher content of zinc, B-vitamins and sulfur amino acids including cysteine and taurine. Adrenal glandular substance is also frequently helpful.
6) Reduce fear and stress. Methods range from a change in location or work to meditation, therapy, more rest and other changes.
COPPER DETOXIFICATION SYMPTOMS
One of the difficulties in reducing excess copper are symptoms that arise during the process of elimination. As the body begins to mobilize excess copper from tissue storage sites, it enters the bloodstream on its way to the liver and kidneys for elimination. While in the bloodstream, the copper can cause headaches, skin rashes, racing thoughts, strange odors, digestive upset, mood swings and energy fluctuations. In men, testicular pain is not uncommon. Women’s periods may be affected. If one knows what is occurring, it is possible to take measures to minimize these temporary elimination symptoms. Enemas, sweating, and drinking more water can help promote copper elimination. Reducing the nutrition program for a few days may also help slow the reactions and reduce symptoms if they are severe. Supplements particularly molybdenum, bile acids, laxative herbs and vitamin B6 may also mitigate elimination symptoms.
ATTITUDES TO HELP BALANCE COPPER
Adequate rest and sleep are important. Any technique to help handle stress is also helpful. A simple but powerful technique for handling all negative emotions is given in an excellent book, Emissary of Light, by James Twyman. He suggests feeling our negative emotions purely, dissociating them from thoughts. Feel them in the body. Then move the feeling to the heart area, visualize a small door just in front of you, open the door and release the emotion. Realize that all feelings are just energies. They can be transmuted, sent forth and used for good.
High copper people are often sensitive, must acknowledge this and 'live their own truth'. At the same time, a careful look at one's attitudes, especially hidden fears, angers and resentments, is very important. Overcoming copper imbalance often involves overcoming deep fears.
Life is not always easy for the copper-toxic person. There is a temptation to become resentful or depressed at times. With understanding, nutritional help and endless compassion for oneself, these obstacles can be overcome. Then the creative, intuitive and loving qualities of the high-copper individual can shine through to the world.
RESOURCES
1. Eck, P. and Wilson, L., Toxic Metals in Human Health and Disease, Eck Institute of Applied Nutrition and Bioenergetics, Ltd., Phoenix, AZ, 1989.
2. Gittleman, A.L., Why Am I Always So Tired? Harper San Francisco, 1999.
3. Nolan, K., "Copper Toxicity Syndrome", J. Orthomolecular Psychiatry, 12:4, p.270-282.
4. Pfeiffer, Carl, MD, PhD, Mental and Elemental Nutrients, Keats Publishing, New Canaan, CT., 1975.
4. Twyman, James F., Emissary of Light, Warner Books, New York, 1996.
Most health problems are related to nutritional deficiencies."
06/09/2008: Laura from Wichita, KS replies: "Sandra,
Thank you so much for that information about melasma being a fungus caused by coper toxicity. I eat a lot of copper rich foods although I'm not a vegetarian. I have been struggling with this stuff for 10 years. I'm now 40 and have not been on any B/C or HRT, nor had/have I been pregnant. I've been to several dr's and nothing has helped. I've even used the fungal cream on my face and took several weeks worth of internal fungal medication to no avail. When my body heats up the darker my patches get. It doesn't matter if I'm taking a warm shower or blow drying my hair. I always get darker when my body warms up. I've bought most of the supplements and am hoping I finally get some kind of relief from this ugly stuff that covers my forehead, cheeks, nose, upper lip, and now spreading to my chin. I've used every acid, lightening cream, etc. to no avail. My dr. suggested Fraxel, but I've heard that the results are only temporary and it's extremely expensive. It's just not for me. I did do the micro derm abrasion for 7 wks in a row with much success, but as soon as I quit going, it was back just as dark within 3 weeks. I couldn't afford to go once a week. But, your article has given me hope. I've researched this stuff sooo much, I'm blue in the face and I was ready to give up and quit trying until I read what you had posted. Thank you! If you can give me some idea of the dosages from your referances on the supplements, that would be wonderful. Currently I'm taking 1,000mg of msm, 1,000mg of C asorbic acid, 50mg of zinc, I'm also taking probiotics and digestive enzymes. All once a day. Thank you again! Laura in KS."
06/25/2008: Leah from Suffolk, VA replies: "Melasma - regarding the GSE - is that Grapefruit seed extract or Grape Seed Extract?? I have Grape Seed Extract and if I take one pill 3x/day, it will only equal 90 mg, which would require 10 - 20 pills to equal the amount of liquid GSE taken by one successful user. Is this possible??"
EC: GSE usually refers to Grapefruit Seed Extract.
06/28/2008: Bret (patientadvocate2@yahoo.com) from Phoenix, Arizona replies: "This is a great article on copper. I take chlorophyllin, a copper based form of chlorophyll. I have only felt great and never felt bad since starting this two years ago. As a side comment. Chlorohphyll is identicle to hemoglobin. The only difference is a magnesium atom in the center of this ringed structure instead of iron,(for hemoglobin.) Chlorophyllin has copper in the middle and this pigment is hemoglobin for all mollusks and shellfish. I get sunburned pretty easily, (German and English genes.) If I am taking chlorophyllin I can golf or ski all day and it was as if I wore spf 15 sun screen. I haven't peeled in two years. Also, the next day. I have so much energy!"
07/24/2008: Sandra (sandramhebert@gmail.com) from Pensacola, FL replies: "I posted a link about Copper and wanted to reply to Laura in Wichata. Laura, I take:
50mg Zinc w/ full range amino acid chelate
1,000 mg MSM
400 mg Magnesium w/ hydroxy acid orotates
Prenatal vitamin w/ no copper -
Sometimes an extra 500 mg vitamin C.
I read that some OB/GYNs tell their patients who get Melasma to take ZINC supplements - never take more than 50mg a day.
Pregant women's bodies start to store excessive amounts of copper in their bodies during their last trimester to prepare to give birth - this is when they get the "mask of pregnancey" melasma - excessive copper is what causes it.
Ciao"
07/28/2008: Laura from Wichita, KS replies: "To: Sandra from Pensacola, FL. Thank you for the list of supplements. I will keep taking them. I am taking 50 mg zinc. 250 mg magnesium. along with 1000 mg of c. It's got to work at some point. Hopefully. Thank you!"
09/11/2008: Laura from Wichita, KS replies: "Update on my regimine. After being on all the supplements for almost 3 months, I did not notice any difference in my melasma. Three weeks ago today, I started using the Mama lotion which is a mixture of mandelic and malic acids. Wow!!! I cannot tell you how happy I am with these acids! They have lightened my melasma up considerably!!! I'm so excited after all these years, I have finally found something that actually works! Today is the 3rd week of using it, I think in another month or two, my melasma might just be completely lightened. So, those of you trying everything on the face of the earth as I did. You might consider it."
10/01/2008: Gaganpreet (gks27@cornell.edu) from Ithaca, NY replies: "Hi, this message is for Laura from Wichita, KS:
06/09/2008: Laura from Wichita, KS replies: "Sandra,
Thank you so much for that information about melasma being a fungus caused by coper toxicity. I eat a lot of copper rich foods although I'm not a vegetarian. I have been struggling with this stuff for 10 years. I'm now 40 and have not been on any B/C or HRT, nor had/have I been pregnant. I've been to several dr's and nothing has helped. I've even used the fungal cream on my face and took several weeks worth of internal fungal medication to no avail. When my body heats up the darker my patches get. It doesn't matter if I'm taking a warm shower or blow drying my hair. I always get darker when my body warms up. I've bought most of the supplements and am hoping I finally get some kind of relief from this ugly stuff that covers my forehead, cheeks, nose, upper lip, and now spreading to my chin. I've used every acid, lightening cream, etc. to no avail. My dr. suggested Fraxel, but I've heard that the results are only temporary and it's extremely expensive. It's just not for me. I did do the micro derm abrasion for 7 wks in a row with much success, but as soon as I quit going, it was back just as dark within 3 weeks. I couldn't afford to go once a week. But, your article has given me hope. I've researched this stuff sooo much, I'm blue in the face and I was ready to give up and quit trying until I read what you had posted. Thank you! If you can give me some idea of the dosages from your referances on the supplements, that would be wonderful. Currently I'm taking 1,000mg of msm, 1,000mg of C asorbic acid, 50mg of zinc, I'm also taking probiotics and digestive enzymes. All once a day. Thank you again! Laura in KS."I am 28 yr old female. I was reading through your posts and I've also never taken BCPs, nor have I been pregnant. As far as I think, my melasma appeared due to stress. I bought Mama lotion last year and did not use it. Is it still working for you? I'm trying to write a grant for more research on melasma especially for women who have no pr