Hyperpigmentation in Skin of Color: Thiamidol, Melasma & Visible Light

From The Science of Skin · 13:52

Show by A Science of Skin Podcast

Why is hyperpigmentation so hard to treat in skin of color, and what actually works? Recorded live on day three of the Science of Skin Summit in Austin, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Patty Farris talks with Dr. Cheri Frey, residency program director at Howard University and an expert in treating hyperpigmentation, melasma, and pigmentary disorders.They start with the story behind thiamidol, a new ingredient that Beiersdorf found by screening thousands of molecules. It was chosen for how well it blocks human tyrosinase, not the mushroom tyrosinase most labs had relied on. From there, they look at why patients with Fitzpatrick skin types V and VI are underrepresented in hyperpigmentation clinical trials. They also explain how visible light combined with UVA drives pigmentation in deeper skin tones, and how to protect skin with tinted sunscreen, iron oxides, and antioxidants.In this episode:How thiamidol was discovered and why human tyrosinase testing mattersThe research gap for skin of color in hyperpigmentation clinical trialsVisible light, UVA, and hyperpigmentation in Fitzpatrick skin types IV to VIWhy most visible light exposure comes from the sun, not your phone or screensTinted sunscreens, iron oxides, and antioxidants for visible light protectionUnderdiagnosis and misdiagnosis of melasma, lichen planus pigmentosus, and PIH in darker skinSunscreen misinformation on social media and how patients can choose the right productsUsing the Radiant Tone regimen with thiamidol and licochalcone A for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), melasma, and solar lentiginesAdding a dark spot serum to an acne routine, and using thiamidol before laser treatments to lower the risk of PIHHave a question or an idea for a future episode? Email [email protected].⚠️ This content is for educational and informational purposes only and reflects the personal clinical opinions and experiences of the speakers. It is not medical advice. Consult a licensed healthcare provider for questions about diagnosis or treatment.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star rating and share with a colleague — word of mouth helps our podcast grow!

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