Hi Dr. Irwin. I'm a 30 year old woman with severe melasma that developed 4 years ago -- along with other symptoms (excessive facial hair, irregular periods,etc). I've tried Hydroquinone which worked well, but stopped after I found out in was banned in Europe. I was recently advised to take Spironolactone to triage my symptoms - however, I understand that it can have an adverse effect on melasma as well. What are the odds that Spironolactone will reduce or increase my current melasma? I certainly don't want it to get worse...
Please, please, please go see your doctor or gynecologist right away. In some women these symptoms can be related to more serious gynecology problems like polycystic ovary disease or endometriosis. In the meantime, while you are waiting to be evaluated, this pigment fighting regimen is safe.
Dr. I