Combination therapy with salicylic acid chemical peels, glycyrrhizin compound, and vitamin C for Riehl's melanosis

Abstract Background Riehl's melanosis is a chronic, refractory disorder, which can adversely affect patient's quality of life. Intense pulse light, neodymium‐doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser, hydroquinone, tranexamic acid have been reported to treat this disease, but there have been few reports on the effectiveness of other treatments. Aim To assess the efficacy and safety of triple combination therapy with salicylic acid chemical peels, oral glycyrrhizin compound, and vitamin C for Riehl's melanosis. Patients/Methods Three patients diagnosed with Riehl's melanosis were enrolled. All patients were treated with glycyrrhizin compound (150 mg/d), vitamin C (100 mg/d), and salicylic acid 30% peels once every 2 weeks. Clinical photographs and VISIA were used to assess the efficacy. Results All patients received obvious improvement and reported no obvious side effects. Conclusion Triple combination therapy with salicylic acid peels, oral glycyrrhizin compound, and vitamin C is a safe and effective modality for Riehl's melanosis.