Legal Disclaimer

This policy provides general information and cosmetic-class guidance only for adults (18+) who experience melasma-type facial pigmentation, including people who have been told by a doctor that they have melasma.^{1 2} It does not diagnose melasma or any other pigmentary disorder, and it does not provide medical treatment.^{1 3} Diagnosis and medical management remain the responsibility of the patient’s GP or dermatologist, in line with Australian standards of care.^{2 5}

Under Australian law, melasma is regarded as a medical condition, and any claim to treat, prevent, reverse, cure or correct melasma is considered a therapeutic claim regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).^{7 8} All products and procedures described in this policy are used and explained as cosmetic-class only—they are intended to cleanse, protect, moisturise, soothe, or improve the appearance of the skin and uneven pigmentation, not to treat disease.^{7 9} No product, device, or service covered by this document may be advertised or presented as treating melasma, and nothing here overrides the requirements of AHPRA, TGA, ACCC or AICIS.^{10 11}

Nothing in this document is legal advice; providers should seek independent medico-legal advice if there is any uncertainty.

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to set out a lawful, evidence-aware framework for using non-prescription skincare and cosmetic-level energy devices to support the appearance of melasma-type facial pigmentation in adults, without crossing into medical practice.^{7 2} It aims to ensure that all staff understand the limits of cosmetic care, use appropriate language, and avoid therapeutic claims while still giving patients clear, practical strategies to help their skin look more even and more stable over time.^{10 1}

The policy also establishes standardised patient education on melasma-type triggers—including UV, visible light, heat, hormones and irritation—and sets out what cosmetic ingredients, routines, and devices can realistically do (appearance improvement only), and when escalation to a GP or dermatologist is appropriate.^{2 3} Finally, it outlines documentation, adverse event, and audit requirements so the clinic operates in line with Australian regulatory, consumer-protection and clinical-governance expectations.^{11 7}

2. Scope & Exclusions

2.1 Who this policy applies to

This policy applies to adult patients (18+) who present for cosmetic assessment and support for melasma-type facial pigmentation—typically symmetrical brown or grey-brown patches affecting the cheeks, forehead, temples, upper lip and/or nose.^{1 6} It includes both patients who already have a medical diagnosis of melasma from a GP or dermatologist and those who self-report “dark patches” or “mask-like pigmentation” but have not yet been formally diagnosed, in which case staff must recommend medical assessment where appropriate.^{2 3}

2.2 Inclusions (cosmetic-class support only)

This policy covers cosmetic-class measures, including:

• Daily SPF50+ photoprotection, preferably with zinc oxide/titanium dioxide and iron oxides (tinted mineral sunscreens).^{2 1}
• Non-prescription cosmetic ingredients that support brightness, more even-looking tone and barrier health, such as:
  • Niacinamide 2–5%
  • Vitamin C derivatives
  • Cosmetic-strength azelaic acid (≤10%)
  • Cosmetic-strength tranexamic acid (TXA ≤3%)
  • Arbutin, kojic acid, liquorice extract
  • Centella, allantoin
  • Ceramide-based moisturisers^{13 14}
• Cosmetic-only energy devices (e.g. low-fluence IPL, non-ablative lasers, picosecond “toning” protocols) used strictly to improve the appearance of uneven pigmentation, not to treat melasma as a disease.^{2 15}

2.3 Exclusions (medical practice)

This policy does not include:

• Diagnosis or medical treatment of melasma or any other pigment condition.^{1 2}
• Prescription therapies (hydroquinone, tretinoin, prescription-strength azelaic acid, oral TXA, compounded creams).
• Medium/deep chemical peels or ablative lasers used as medical melasma procedures.²
• Any advice on starting, stopping or changing hormonal or thyroid medications.
• Assessment or management of suspicious, rapidly changing, irregular, raised or symptomatic pigmentation.

Such presentations must be referred promptly to a GP or dermatologist.^{1 4}

3. Regulatory & Advertising Compliance

All use of this policy in public-facing materials (website, social media, Google Business, printed brochures, patient handouts) constitutes advertising for a regulated health service and must comply with AHPRA advertising guidelines, the National Law, and ACCC requirements.^{10 11}

Under TGA guidance, any claim that a product or service treats, prevents or cures melasma is a therapeutic claim and is not permitted for cosmetic goods or cosmetic procedures.^{7 8} All products used under this policy must be framed as cosmetics: they cleanse, protect and improve the appearance of skin and uneven pigmentation without implying disease treatment.^{7 9} AHPRA and the Medical Board of Australia also prohibit false, misleading or deceptive advertising and require that risks, limitations and realistic outcomes are communicated clearly for cosmetic procedures.^{10 12}

To remain compliant, all references to melasma in clinic materials must:

• Use appearance-based language (e.g. “improves the look of uneven pigmentation”)
• Avoid terms like “cure”, “erase”, “correct melasma”, “medical-grade melasma treatment”
• Clarify that diagnosis and medical treatment of melasma (including prescription products) remain with the patient’s GP or dermatologist^{11 2}

4. Understanding Melasma (Cosmetic Explanation Only)

Melasma is a chronic pigmentary disorder characterised by symmetrical brown or grey-brown patches on sun-exposed areas of the face, such as the cheeks, forehead, temples, upper lip and nose.^{1 6} It is more common in women, in people with darker Fitzpatrick skin types, and during times of hormonal change such as pregnancy or oral contraceptive use.^{2 3} Although melasma itself is benign, it can significantly affect confidence, self-image and quality of life, which is why many people seek help with its appearance.⁵

In a cosmetic context, melasma is best thought of as a skin pattern that is highly sensitive to light, heat, hormonal shifts and irritation, rather than a simple stain that can be scrubbed off.^{1 2} Even when pigmentation lightens—for example after pregnancy or in winter—it tends to recur quickly with sun exposure or hormonal fluctuations, making long-term maintenance and realistic expectations essential.² Cosmetic providers therefore focus on supporting appearance through photoprotection, gentle skincare, cosmetic brightening and camouflage, while leaving diagnosis and prescription-based treatment to doctors.^{1 3}

5. Triggers – Patient Education (Cosmetic Framing)

5.1 Environmental Triggers

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the strongest external factor that worsens melasma, causing visible patches to darken quickly even with modest or incidental sun exposure such as walking to the car or sitting near a window.^{1 4} High-energy visible light (HEV/blue light), from both sunlight and digital screens, also contributes to melasma darkening, particularly in medium to dark skin types, which is why tinted sunscreens containing iron oxides are increasingly recommended in melasma resources.^{2 6} Ambient heat—from hot weather, saunas, hot yoga, hot showers and cooking steam—further stimulates pigment cells and can make melasma patches appear more intense and stubborn.^{1 2}

5.2 Internal & Hormonal Triggers

Hormonal changes play a central role in melasma; many people first develop these pigmentation patterns during pregnancy, while taking oral contraceptives, or in perimenopause.^{1 3} Endocrine factors such as thyroid disease may also be associated with melasma in some patients, but assessing this falls under medical care.² Cosmetic practitioners cannot adjust medications or manage hormones but can advise patients that melasma is hormonally sensitive and encourage them to discuss possible hormonal contributors with their GP or dermatologist.^{2 1}

5.3 Topical & Procedural Triggers

Irritation from harsh scrubs, frequent peels, strong acids, fragranced products and DIY bleaching remedies can cause ongoing inflammation and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which blends with melasma and makes the overall pattern more pronounced.^{6 1} Inappropriate use of lasers or IPL—especially high-fluence settings or unsuitable wavelengths—can also trigger rebound pigmentation, particularly in darker skin phototypes, which is why conservative parameters and careful patient selection are essential.^{2 15} Unregulated whitening creams purchased overseas or online may contain potent steroids, hydroquinone or mercury and should be avoided; patients using them should be encouraged to stop and be referred to a GP or dermatologist for safe alternatives.^{4 7}

6. DO & DON’T Advice (Cosmetic Focus)

6.1 DO – Supportive Cosmetic Behaviours

Patients should apply broad-spectrum SPF50+ sunscreen every morning, ideally a tinted mineral formulation with zinc, titanium and iron oxides, as this is the single most important cosmetic step for slowing visible melasma darkening.^{2 1} Photoprotection should be reinforced with wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and shade, because physical barriers provide additional defence against UV and visible light and are explicitly recommended in Australian melasma guidance.^{3 4}

Skincare routines should be simple and gentle, using fragrance-free cleansers, barrier-supportive serums (such as niacinamide), ceramide-rich moisturisers and non-irritating cosmetic brighteners to maintain barrier health and reduce the risk of irritation-related pigmentation.^{18 13} Patients should also be encouraged to minimise unnecessary heat exposure on the face by avoiding very hot showers, stepping back from direct steam, limiting time in saunas or hot yoga, and exercising at cooler times of day, as heat is a recognised melasma trigger.^{1 2} Consistency is vital—melasma does not change overnight, but weeks to months of disciplined photoprotection and gentle skincare typically improve how even and bright the complexion appears.^{2 5}

6.2 DON’T – Behaviours That Worsen Appearance

Patients with melasma-type pigmentation should avoid harsh scrubs, exfoliating brushes, frequent strong peels, and high-strength at-home acids, as these often provoke irritation and PIH, worsening the overall pattern.^{6 1} They should be warned against unregulated whitening creams purchased online or overseas, which may contain illegal steroids or mercury and can cause long-term damage, steroid-induced rosacea, ochronosis and paradoxical darkening.^{4 7} Melasma-prone individuals should also be counselled that cosmetic lasers or IPL are not guaranteed solutions and that overly aggressive settings can leave pigmentation more conspicuous than before; any decision to use devices must follow a frank discussion of risks, limitations and realistic expectations.^{2 15}

7. Topical Ingredient Hierarchy

All ingredients below must be presented as cosmetic support for the appearance of uneven pigmentation, not as melasma treatments.

7.1 Mineral Sunscreen

Tinted mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide, titanium dioxide and iron oxides are the cornerstone of cosmetic melasma support in Australia because they protect against UVA, UVB and visible light and provide immediate cosmetic coverage.^{2 16} They help reduce the day-to-day darkening that occurs from light exposure and should be presented as essential for maintaining a more even-looking complexion rather than as therapeutic melasma treatments.^{1 17}

7.2 Niacinamide 2–5%

Niacinamide supports the skin barrier, improves hydration and has been shown in cosmetic studies to reduce the appearance of mottled pigmentation and sallowness.^{13 13} It should be described as a barrier and tone support ingredient that helps skin look calmer and more uniform, especially when used with sunscreen, not as a bleaching agent or melasma drug.^{13 18}

7.3 Vitamin C

Vitamin C derivatives used in cosmetic serums provide antioxidant protection and improve the appearance of dullness and uneven tone.^{19 13} In melasma-prone skin, they are best positioned as part of a brightening and radiance routine, always combined with SPF, and not as stand-alone treatments for the underlying condition.²

7.4 Azelaic Acid ≤10% (Cosmetic Strength)

Azelaic acid in prescription strengths (15–20%) has strong evidence for medical management of melasma, but those uses fall under dermatological practice.^{20 21} Cosmetic-strength azelaic acid (≤10%) may soften the appearance of blotchy tone and texture when used carefully with sunscreen and barrier support, but must be marketed and discussed only as a cosmetic brightening ingredient, not as medical therapy.^{7 2}

7.5 Tranexamic Acid ≤3% (Cosmetic Strength)

Topical TXA ≤3% is used in some cosmetic serums to support a more uniform-looking skin tone, particularly when combined with strict photoprotection, but it is distinct from oral TXA and prescription topical preparations used in medical melasma protocols.^{22 2} Any systemic or prescription-strength TXA must be managed exclusively by doctors, and cosmetic TXA products must not be implied to be equivalent or superior.⁷

7.6 Arbutin, Kojic Acid & Botanicals

Arbutin, kojic acid and botanical extracts such as liquorice root are used in cosmetic formulas to help soften the appearance of hyperpigmented spots and uneven tone when used cautiously.^{23 14} Because these ingredients can irritate if overused, they should be introduced slowly, with clear instructions to stop and seek medical advice if stinging, burning or persistent redness occurs.⁶

7.7 Ceramides & Barrier Moisturisers

Ceramide-rich moisturisers are not pigment treatments but are essential supportive products in melasma-prone skin, helping maintain barrier strength and reduce reactivity to heat, light and active cosmetic ingredients.¹⁸ A strong barrier reduces the risk of irritation and PIH, which indirectly supports a more stable and even-looking complexion.¹³

7.8 Tinted SPF & Corrective Makeup

Tinted sunscreens, green-tint primers and mineral foundations provide immediate cosmetic camouflage by reducing the visual contrast between melasma patches and surrounding skin.^{17 1} These tools must be described as cosmetic coverage, not as therapies, and can significantly improve confidence while medical and cosmetic routines are ongoing.³

8. Cosmetic Laser / IPL / Energy Devices

8.1 Cosmetic Role

Low-fluence IPL, non-ablative lasers and select picosecond or nanosecond devices may, in suitable patients, improve the appearance of uneven pigmentation when used conservatively and in combination with strict photoprotection.^{2 15} They do not remove melasma or prevent its recurrence and should always be discussed as optional cosmetic adjuncts rather than central treatments.

8.2 Legal Framing

All device-related information must explicitly state that these are cosmetic procedures aimed at improving appearance and are not melasma treatments.^{7 10} A standard phrase should be used in all consent and education materials, such as:

“This is a cosmetic laser/IPL procedure to improve the appearance of uneven pigmentation. It does not treat melasma or any pigment disorder. Medical treatment remains with your GP or dermatologist.”

8.3 Risks & Suitability

Melasma is highly prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, so device-based treatments carry a real risk of making pigmentation more obvious if used inappropriately, especially in darker skin.^{2 15} Patients must be counselled about potential temporary darkening, PIH, hypopigmentation, erythema, swelling, burns and scarring, and the fact that multiple sessions may be needed with no guaranteed result.¹⁰ Higher-risk patients, atypical pigment, or any doubt about diagnosis should trigger referral to dermatology rather than proceeding with cosmetic devices.¹

9. Daily Routine (Cosmetic Support)

9.1 Morning Routine

A morning routine for melasma-type pigmentation begins with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water to avoid irritation.⁶ A vitamin C serum may then be applied to support antioxidant defence and brighten the appearance of dull or uneven skin, followed by a niacinamide product to reinforce the barrier and soften the look of blotchiness.^{19 13} A ceramide-rich moisturiser maintains hydration and resilience, and the routine is finished with a tinted SPF50+ mineral sunscreen, ideally with zinc, titanium and iron oxides, to protect against UV and visible light while providing cosmetic coverage.^{2 1} Hats, sunglasses and shade further enhance protection and help maintain a more even-looking complexion in the Australian sun.³

9.2 Evening Routine

In the evening, patients cleanse gently to remove sunscreen, makeup and pollutants, then apply one cosmetic brightener (such as cosmetic-strength azelaic acid ≤10%, TXA ≤3% or an arbutin-based serum) on selected nights, avoiding the use of multiple strong actives together.^{21 22} A ceramide moisturiser is applied afterwards to support barrier repair and reduce the chance of irritation. If stinging, burning or persistent redness develops, actives should be stopped and GP or dermatologist advice sought if symptoms do not settle.⁶

9.3 Weekly/Monthly Add-Ons

Once the daily routine is stable and well tolerated, some patients may benefit from very gentle cosmetic exfoliation (e.g., low-strength lactic acid or PHA once weekly) or cosmetic LED to support overall skin appearance.¹⁸ Any in-clinic cosmetic device treatments must be carried out cautiously, with clear pre- and post-care instructions to minimise the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and other complications.

10. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is melasma-type facial pigmentation?

Melasma-type pigmentation refers to symmetrical brown or grey-brown patches that commonly appear on the cheeks, forehead, temples, upper lip or nose.^{1 2} It is triggered by sunlight, heat, hormones and skin irritation, and often becomes more noticeable during summer or when photographed in bright light. Only a doctor can diagnose melasma as a medical condition, but individuals often seek cosmetic support to improve how even their skin looks day-to-day.³

Q2. Is melasma dangerous?

Melasma is not dangerous, but it can significantly affect appearance and confidence.^{1 4} However, when pigmentation is new, changing, irregular, raised, or symptomatic, it must be reviewed by a GP or dermatologist because some skin cancers and precancerous lesions can mimic benign pigmentation.^{2 3} Cosmetic practitioners must always escalate atypical pigmentation for medical assessment.

Q3. Why does my melasma get darker in summer or on holidays?

Melasma worsens in summer because UV and visible light accelerate melanin production, deepening existing patches even with short incidental exposure.^{1 2} Heat, humidity, outdoor activities and reflected sunlight (e.g., sand, water) further intensify pigmentation, which is why many people return from holidays with visibly darker patches.^{4 5}

Q4. Can skincare products cure melasma?

No. Under Australian law, non-prescription skincare cannot treat or cure melasma and must not be advertised as doing so.^{7 10} Cosmetic ingredients—such as niacinamide, vitamin C, arbutin, cosmetic-strength azelaic acid and tranexamic acid—can support a brighter, more even-looking complexion, but they do not change the underlying medical condition.^{2 13}

Q5. Why is sunscreen so important if I already have melasma?

Photoprotection is the single most effective cosmetic measure for melasma-prone skin. UV and visible light will continue to stimulate pigment even when brightening serums are used.^{2 3} A tinted mineral SPF50+ offers broad-spectrum protection and reduces visible light exposure while providing cosmetic coverage that softens pigment contrast.^{1 4}

Q6. What type of sunscreen is best for melasma?

Zinc-based tinted SPF50+ sunscreens are preferred because they block UVA/UVB and contain iron oxides, which reduce visible blue-light–induced pigment darkening.^{2 16} They also provide instant cosmetic coverage, helping the complexion appear more even.^{1 17}

Q7. Does heat make melasma worse, or only sunlight?

Both matter. Heat—from saunas, hot showers, hot yoga, cooking steam or exercising outdoors—can intensify melasma by activating pigment cells and increasing local inflammation.^{1 2} Reducing heat exposure is essential for maintaining more stable cosmetic results.^{4 5}

Q8. Can stress make melasma worse?

Stress does not directly cause melasma but can worsen its appearance by influencing hormones and inflammation.^{2 4} Poor sleep, irregular routines and inconsistent sunscreen use during stressful periods can also make pigmentation appear darker or more uneven.³

Q9. Will exfoliation help my melasma fade faster?

Harsh exfoliation is more likely to worsen melasma by damaging the skin barrier and triggering post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.^{6 1} Gentle cosmetic exfoliants (e.g., low-strength lactic acid or PHAs) may be used cautiously in some routines if the skin is comfortable, but irritation must always prompt immediate cessation and medical review if persistent.²

Q10. Are whitening or bleaching creams online safe to use?

Many imported “whitening” creams contain illegal steroids, hydroquinone or mercury, which can cause skin thinning, ochronosis, steroid-induced rosacea and even systemic toxicity.^{1 4} They should never be used. Patients using them must be advised to stop and contact a GP or dermatologist for medically supervised options.^{2 7}

Q11. Can cosmetic brightening serums help?

Yes—cosmetic serums containing niacinamide, vitamin C, arbutin, liquorice extract, cosmetic-strength azelaic acid or TXA can improve the appearance of uneven tone.^{13 14} These support a brighter, more uniform look but do not treat melasma as a disease.^{2 3}

Q12. Do I need to stop the contraceptive pill to improve melasma?

Only a GP or gynaecologist can advise on hormonal contraception.^{2 1} Estrogen and progesterone can influence melasma, but changing or stopping contraception involves broader medical considerations. Cosmetic clinics must not advise on medication changes.³

Q13. Does pregnancy pigmentation require treatment?

Pregnancy-related pigmentation often improves naturally after delivery or breastfeeding.^{1 4} Cosmetic care focuses on sunscreen, gentle routines and camouflage. Prescription creams, peels and oral medications must be deferred until after pregnancy and breastfeeding and provided only by doctors.²

Q14. Can diet or supplements cure melasma?

No specific diet or supplement has proven ability to cure melasma, and such claims are misleading under Australian consumer law.^{2 11} A balanced diet may support skin health generally, but it cannot replace sun protection or medical treatment where needed.⁴

Q15. Are in-clinic peels safe for melasma-prone skin?

Gentle cosmetic peels may improve brightness and texture, but they carry a real risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in darker skin.^{2 6} Medium/deep peels, strong TCA, phenol peels and unregulated chemical peels are medical procedures and lie outside cosmetic scope.^{1 7}

Q16. How do cosmetic lasers and IPL fit into melasma?

Lasers and IPL may help improve the appearance of blotchy pigmentation when used conservatively.^{2 15} They must never be advertised as curing melasma, and results can rebound quickly with sun or heat. They should be positioned as optional adjuncts, not solutions.^{1 5}

Q17. Can darker skin types have melasma, and is care different?

Yes. Melasma is common in Fitzpatrick IV–VI and can be more visually noticeable.^{6 2} These patients have a higher risk of PIH, so conservative routines, strict photoprotection and dermatologist involvement are important—especially before peels or devices.^{15 1}

Q18. How many products should I use if I have melasma?

Most melasma-prone skins respond best to simple routines: gentle cleanser, 1–2 serums, barrier moisturiser and tinted SPF50+.^{2 13} Overusing multiple strong actives often leads to irritation and worsening pigmentation.

Q19. What cosmetic results can I expect?

Cosmetic measures can significantly improve brightness and evenness, especially with disciplined sun protection and trigger management.^{1 3} Melasma remains chronic and relapsing, so the realistic goal is long-term stability—not complete removal.^{2 4}

Q20. When is cosmetic care not enough and I need a specialist?

A dermatologist is needed when pigmentation is atypical, rapidly changing, raised, symptomatic, very dark, or unresponsive to strong photoprotection.^{2 1} Medical specialists can rule out serious conditions and offer prescription care beyond cosmetic scope.^{3 5}

11. Documentation, Adverse Events & Audit

11.1 Documentation

For each consultation relating to melasma-type pigmentation, staff must record the patient’s cosmetic concerns and goals, the main triggers discussed, the cosmetic recommendations provided, any advice to seek GP or dermatologist review, and any decision to use or avoid cosmetic devices. Clear documentation helps demonstrate that cosmetic and medical roles are being appropriately separated.

11.2 Adverse Events

If a patient has an unexpected reaction to a cosmetic product or device, the clinician must document the product/device name, batch number, timing and description of the reaction. The patient should be advised to stop all active products and revert to a minimal “rescue routine” (gentle cleanser + barrier moisturiser), and the incident should be escalated to the clinical lead. GP or dermatologist review should be considered for severe, persistent or atypical reactions, and supplier or TGA notification may be required if a product fault or serious event is suspected.^{7 10}

11.3 Audit

At least annually, the clinic should conduct an audit of:

• All melasma-related advertising, website copy and patient information against current TGA, AHPRA and ACCC guidance.
• Cosmetic products used or sold, to confirm AICIS compliance and appropriate labelling.
• Laser/IPL consent forms and procedure notes, ensuring cosmetic framing and risk disclosures.
• A sample of clinical notes to check that referrals and boundaries between cosmetic and medical care are properly documented.

Sources

1. Australasian College of Dermatologists (ACD). Melasma – patient information. Available at: https://www.dermcoll.edu.au/atoz/melasma/ ↩
2. Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). Melasma – clinical guidance for general practice. Aust J Gen Pract. 2021;50(12). Available at: https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2021/december/melasma ↩
3. Healthdirect / Pregnancy, Birth & Baby. Skin changes during pregnancy – melasma. Available at: https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/skin-changes-during-pregnancy-melasma ↩
4. Better Health Channel (Victoria). Skin – conditions and treatments. Available at: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/skin ↩
5. Skin Health Institute. Patient information and skin conditions resources. Available at: https://skinhealthinstitute.org.au/for-patients/patient-information/ ↩
6. DermNet NZ. Melasma (facial pigmentation) – causes, diagnosis and management. Available at: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/melasma ↩
7. Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Determining if your product is a cosmetic or a therapeutic good. Available at: https://www.tga.gov.au/resources/guidance/determining-if-your-product-cosmetic-or-therapeutic-good ↩
8. National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). Guideline development – supporting high quality clinical practice guidelines. Available at: https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/research-policy/guideline-development ↩
9. Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS). Personal care, skincare, make-up and other cosmetic products. Available at: https://www.industrialchemicals.gov.au/cosmetics-and-soap/personal-care-skincare-make-and-other-cosmetic-products ↩
10. Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Guidelines for advertising a regulated health service. Available at: https://www.ahpra.gov.au/Resources/Advertising-hub/Advertising-guidelines-and-other-guidance/Advertising-guidelines.aspx ↩
11. Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). False or misleading claims – advertising and promotions. Available at: https://www.accc.gov.au/consumers/advertising-and-promotions/false-or-misleading-claims ↩
12. Medical Board of Australia (MBA). Guidelines for registered medical practitioners who perform cosmetic surgery and procedures. Available at: https://www.medicalboard.gov.au/Codes-Guidelines-Policies/Cosmetic-medical-and-surgical-procedures-guidelines.aspx ↩
13. Draelos ZD. Skin lightening preparations and the hydroquinone controversy. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2007;8(5):305–313. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18045355/ ↩
14. Briganti S, Camera E, Picardo M. Chemical and instrumental approaches to treat hyperpigmentation. Pigment Cell Res. 2003;16(2):101–110. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nl.gov/12622786/ ↩
15. Kauvar ANB. Successful treatment of melasma using a combination of microdermabrasion and Q-switched Nd:YAG lasers. Lasers Surg Med. 2012;44(2):117–124. Available at: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/lsm.21156 ↩
16. Mahmoud BH et al. Impact of long-wavelength UVA and visible light on melanogenesis. J Invest Dermatol. 2010;130(8):2092–2097. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20410914/ ↩
17. Castanedo-Cazares JP et al. Near-visible light and UV photoprotection in the treatment of melasma: a double-blind randomized trial. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2014;30(1):35–42. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24313385/ ↩
18. Lodén M. Role of topical emollients and moisturizers in the treatment of dry skin barrier disorders. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2003;4(11):771–788. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14572299/ ↩
19. Farris PK. Topical vitamin C: a useful agent for treating photoaging and other dermatologic conditions. Dermatol Surg. 2005;31(7 Pt 2):814–818. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029672/ ↩
20. Thiboutot D et al. Efficacy and safety of azelaic acid (15%) gel as a new treatment for papulopustular rosacea. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2003;48(6):836–845. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12789172/ ↩
21. Rivero AL, Whitfeld M. An update on the treatment of rosacea. Aust Prescr. 2018;41(1):20–24. Available at: https://australianprescriber.tg.org.au/articles/an-update-on-the-treatment-of-rosacea.html ↩
22. Zhang L et al. Tranexamic acid for adults with melasma: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Acta Derm Venereol. 2018;98(9):923–929. Available at: https://www.medicaljournals.se/acta/content/html/10.2340/00015555-2668 ↩
23. Lim JT. Treatment of melasma using kojic acid in a gel containing hydroquinone and glycolic acid. Dermatol Surg. 1999;25(4):282–284. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10417583/ ↩