Combining Microneedling and Tranexamic Acid for Melasma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND

Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been explored as a potential treatment for melasma, and microneedling (MN) enhances transcutaneous drug delivery. To evaluate the clinical efficacy, patient satisfaction, and safety of microneedling combined with TXA (MN + TXA) in treating melasma compared to alternative treatment modalities.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Clinical improvement, patient satisfaction, and adverse events were analyzed using standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). The risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2.0 and ROBINS-I tools.

RESULTS

MN + TXA showed no significant improvement over other treatments in overall clinical outcomes. However, subgroup analysis revealed MN + TXA was significantly more effective than MN alone. Patient satisfaction did not significantly differ between MN + TXA and other treatments. The incidence of adverse events was similar across treatment groups.

CONCLUSION

Compared to other therapies, MN+TXA may be considered a potential option for melasma management. Future large-scale, standardized, multicenter trials directly are essential to confirm its efficacy, safety, and clinical utility.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE I

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