Chemical peel showdown: which acid fades melasma better?
NCT ID NCT01976286
First seen Jul 01, 2026 · Last updated Jul 01, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether glycolic acid or salicylic acid chemical peels are safer and more effective for treating melasma, a condition that causes dark patches on the face. Adults with melasma patches on both sides of their face receive one type of peel on each side, and a dermatologist judges which side looks better after 16 weeks. The goal is to find a better way to manage this stubborn skin condition.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
glycolic acid and salicylic acid chemical peels
What this could lead to
If one peel works better, it could offer a more effective option for reducing melasma patches on the face.
What could go wrong
This is a small pilot study with only 21 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Melasma often requires ongoing treatment, and peels may cause irritation or temporary skin darkening.
Disclaimer
Read more
Show less
This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for MELANOSIS are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Locations
-
Northwestern University Department of Dermatology
Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States