LUCIDA PIGMENT CREAM PLUS

Description

Advanced Multi-Targeted Depigmenting Formula
Hydroquinone-based. Designed for melasma, PIH, and uneven pigmentation

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Product Overview

Lucida Pigment Cream Plus is a physician-formulated cream designed to treat melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and UV-induced dark spots by targeting multiple biological pathways of melanogenesis. The formulation combines Hydroquinone, a gold-standard tyrosinase inhibitor, with Tranexamic Acid, Vitamin C, and Glycolic Acid to suppress pigment formation, exfoliate dyschromic cells, and reduce inflammatory triggers of melanocyte activation.

This multi-functional approach makes Lucida an ideal choice for short-term intensive protocols or as part of staged treatment plans for persistent pigmentary disorders.

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Core Mechanisms of Action

• Hydroquinone (HQ):
  Inhibits tyrosinase, the rate-limiting enzyme in melanin production. HQ is most effective in treating epidermal pigmentation and has rapid onset of action in reducing hyperchromia.

• Tranexamic Acid (TA):
  Reduces UV- and inflammation-induced pigmentation by interfering with the plasminogen activation system. TA downregulates prostaglandins and arachidonic acid pathways, indirectly reducing melanocyte overactivity.

• Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid or derivative):
  A potent antioxidant that scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS), slows melanin synthesis, and improves collagen quality. It also enhances skin luminosity.

• Glycolic Acid (AHA):
  Improves epidermal turnover, facilitates penetration of depigmenting agents, and accelerates the shedding of pigmented keratinocytes. Supports mild resurfacing and skin texture refinement.

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Clinical Indications

• Epidermal melasma (symmetric, light-to-moderate depth)

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (acne, friction, burns, cosmetic irritation)

• Sun-induced lentigines and photodamage

• Adjuvant use in protocols including laser toning, microneedling, and chemical peels

• Early-stage pigmentation in combination with oral TA (under specialist care)

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Recommended Use in Clinical Settings

• Application:
  Apply once daily at night on cleansed, dry skin. Spot-treat on pigmented areas or apply to the full face depending on the distribution of lesions.

• Duration:
  Use for a maximum of 12–16 weeks as part of a pigment correction phase. Follow with a maintenance regimen using non-HQ brighteners (e.g., arbutin, niacinamide, kojic acid).

• Sunscreen:
  A broad-spectrum SPF 50+ is mandatory in the morning and throughout the day to prevent rebound pigmentation and irritation.

• Titration & Monitoring:
  Start every other night in sensitive patients (Fitzpatrick IV–VI), increase to nightly as tolerated. Assess response at 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

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Clinical Tips for Optimal Use

• Pair with barrier-strengthening moisturizers in patients with dry or reactive skin

• Can be layered with in-office TA mesotherapy or combined with oral TA for faster results

• Avoid concurrent use with strong retinoids or acids unless on a staggered schedule

• Consider stopping HQ temporarily before chemical peels or laser treatments to reduce irritation risk

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Contraindications

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• History of exogenous ochronosis or HQ allergy

• Active eczema, barrier impairment, or open wounds in treatment area

• Recent chemical exfoliation or resurfacing procedures (wait 7–14 days minimum)

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Expected Skin Reactions

• Mild peeling, tingling, dryness, or redness during the first 1–3 weeks

• Temporary worsening of pigmentation may occur before improvement

• In rare cases: irritation-induced rebound PIH or contact dermatitis
  → If observed, reduce frequency or pause until barrier stabilizes

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Key Ingredients

Actives:

• Hydroquinone (2% or 4%, depending on local regulations)

• Tranexamic Acid

• Vitamin C (stabilized form)

• Glycolic Acid

Vehicle base includes:

• Emollients, pH regulators, absorption enhancers, non-sensitizing preservatives.