Can people with olive skin use Tri-Lima? I was told it's banned in Europe and Asia.

Triluma contains hydroquinone which is a bleaching agent which has been used for many decades by Dermatologists for pigmentation problems and melasma.  The strength varies from 2-8% in most situations. Hydroquinone is safe and effective when used as directed by a Dermatologist. To increase its efficacy and avoid unwanted side effects, consider the following:
Use a concentration no higher than 4-8%Use proper sun protection with SPF of 50 or greaterDo not use hydroquinone for more than 6 months in a sustained periodAllow the skin to rest and restore itself for two to three months after hydroquinone therapyResume hydroquinone therapy, if needed, only after such a breakHave regular surveillance by a Dermatologist while being treated with hydroquinone
I hope this helps.  Please see a board certified Dermatologist for an in person consultation.

Triluma is a treatment widely used in the US and it is prescribed for people of all shades. If It is banned from Europe it’s because it contains hydroquinone.

Triluma contains HQ, and this should be monitored, hence the warning. Triluma should not be used as a stand alone treatment in melasma. Video illustrates the Gold Standard of management by most aesthetic dermatologist both in Australia and the United States. 

Melasma is a very common cause of skin pigmentation. It can not be completely cured, however effective treatment are possible. This is because your skin is extremely sensitive to UV and even the smallest amount can stimulate your pigment cells to produce colour. The mainstay of treatment is strict UV protection- hats, sunglasses and SPF every 4 hours. This forms the foundation of all treatments. 



I prefer to use a combination of creams and laser for melasma. Hydroquinone can be used (5-8%), along with vitamin A creams or Meladerm. I start my patients on laser (low dose Q switch or Picosure) as this has shown to decrease pigment production by decreasing the activity of the cells that produce pigment. Laser itself is not aimed at ‘blasting’ pigment, but to slow down the rate of melanin production. Another laser I use is the Clear and Brilliant in the 1927 Permea setting combined with creams. IPL should never be used to treat mixed melasma as it often worsens the condition (this is termed ‘Rebound Melasma’) 



In some cases I combine glycolic AHA peels, and in other cases I use a tablet called Tranexamic acid to help. Melasma treatments should be tailored to each patient according the type of melasma. Majority of patients will have mixed dermal and epidermal melasma. Approach melasma as a medical condition and not a cosmetic concern, and the success rate will be much higher. 

Consult a Board Certified Laser dermatologist with a special interest in disorders in pigmentation as well as one who has experience in treating all skin types, including darker Ethnic skin. 



All the best, Dr Davin Lim. Laser, surgical and aesthetic dermatologist. Brisbane, Australia.