Opinion|Videos|October 14, 2025

Real-World Experiences With Thiamidol in Melasma and PIH

Panelists discuss how thiamidol has shown real-world success in treating stippled postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from acne picking when applied 4 times daily alongside retinoids and chemical peels, with the key being proper product layering and selecting adherent patients who can manage multiple daily applications.

Real-World Experiences with Thiamidol in Melasma and PIH

Clinical experience with thiamidol demonstrates its practical utility in challenging hyperpigmentation cases, particularly those unsuitable for traditional hydroquinone therapy. A representative case involved a patient with extensive stippled PIH secondary to compulsive skin picking, where the irregular pattern made precise hydroquinone application impractical. The patient successfully incorporated thiamidol’s 4-times-daily application regimen alongside retinol and adjunctive chemical peels, demonstrating that motivated patients can manage complex multistep protocols when they observe therapeutic benefits.

The layering sequence proves critical for optimal thiamidol absorption and tolerability when combined with other active ingredients. The recommended approach involves applying thiamidol twice daily with retinol application over thiamidol-containing serums in the evening routine. This sequence takes advantage of the moisturizing properties of thiamidol formulations to create an optimal skin environment for retinoid penetration while bypassing potential epidermal barrier issues. The hydrating nature of these products allows for the use of higher-concentration retinoids than might otherwise be tolerated, maximizing therapeutic potential.

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