N° 43 · Protocol · Protocol guide
The flagship melasma protocol — a retinoid-led four-acid peel for pigment that has resisted everything else. Contact time is titrated to Fitzpatrick type and the peel is neutralised in the chair.
Neutralise
Keep neutraliser within reach for every session. Apply at the endpoint until effervescence stops, then rinse thoroughly.
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.
Contact 3–30 minutes, titrated to Fitzpatrick type. Start at the shortest interval for FST IV–V and for any first treatment.
Apply neutraliser until effervescence stops, then rinse thoroughly. Do not leave the peel on the skin.
Soothing barrier cream and broad-spectrum SPF. Strict sun avoidance 5–7 days. Review at 2 weeks.
Suitability