💊 Supplements That May Help with Melasma & Pigmentation
Melasma is a stubborn skin condition that causes dark patches on the face. While sunscreen and skincare are essential, sometimes your skin needs support from the inside out. That’s where supplements can help.
Below, we’ll look at what science says about oral supplements for melasma, which ones may help, and what to keep in mind before trying them.
🌟 Why Supplements for Melasma?
Melasma is linked to oxidative stress, inflammation, hormones, and sun exposure. Supplements work by:
- Reducing free radical damage (antioxidants)
- Supporting skin barrier health
- Balancing pigmentation pathways
- Enhancing the effects of skincare and sun protection
Top-Rated Products for Brighter, Even-Toned Skin
- Kallistia Hyper Pigmentation Cleanse Capsules
Natural ingredients like licorice root, vitamin C, polypodium leucotomos + antioxidants. Helps fade sun spots, uneven tone, and supports skin after sun exposure. kallistia- MILIZHIWU Melanina Anti-Melasma Capsule
Vitamins + natural extracts designed to help even skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation. Good for supplementing topical treatments. Amazon- Vitamin C / Niacinamide / Polypodium Leucotomos Supplements
These are frequently recommended in research and expert write-ups as helpful “adjuncts” (i.e. used withcreams/serums, not alone). The Melasma Clinic+2Vitamins For Woman+2- Glutathione (oral)
A well-studied antioxidant shown in some trials to lighten skin tone over time, especially when combined with good sun protection. The Melasma Clinic+1
💊 Top Supplements for Melasma
1. Glutathione
- A powerful antioxidant known for skin-brightening effects.
- Helps reduce melanin production and lighten dark patches.
- Works best when combined with sunscreen and skincare.
⭐ Try: BioCeuticals Glutathione 60 Capsules
2. Polypodium Leucotomos Extract (PLE)
- A natural fern extract studied for sun protection and pigmentation disorders.
- Helps prevent UV-triggered melasma flare-ups.
⭐ Try: Propaira Polypodium Leucotomos 240mg
3. Vitamin C & E (Antioxidants)
- Protect skin from free radicals and support bright, even skin tone.
- Work best in combination with each other or with other antioxidants.
⭐ Try: Procyanidin + Vitamins A, C & E blends (check practitioner brands).
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Reduce inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Support hydration and overall skin health.
⭐ Try: Ultra Omega Plus For Skin
5. Tranexamic Acid (Oral, Prescription Only)
- Used by dermatologists for stubborn melasma.
- Shown to reduce pigmentation, but requires medical supervision.
⚠️ Not for everyone (risk of clotting, not suitable during pregnancy).
Here are some specific oral supplement brands and formulations available in Australia that are commonly discussed for pigmentation / melasma; along with what the evidence says, how they’re used, pricing and what to watch out for.
❗ Important: These are adjuncts (helpers) — they’re not replacements for your sun-protection, skincare routine or dermatologist/doctor-directed treatments.
Specific Supplement Options
| Supplement/Brand | What it is & Availability in Australia | Typical Dose / Duration | What the Research Says | Pros | Cons & Caveats |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polypodium leucotomos extract (Try Heliocare / NutriFlair ) | Available as oral tablets in Australia; discussed at Australian specialist clinics. (The Melasma Clinic) | ~480 mg twice daily is cited by one Australian melasma clinic. (The Melasma Clinic) | Moderate evidence: may help as adjunct for melasma/pigmentation by providing photoprotection + reducing visible-/HEV/IR light impact. (The Melasma Clinic) | • Adds an extra layer of defence beyond topical sunscreen.• Safe in many cases. | • Not standalone cure—should accompany sunscreen + skincare.• More expensive.• Effect size likely modest. (The Melasma Clinic) |
| Glutathione (oral) | Again available in Australia via many supplement outlets (though need to ensure quality/purity). | ~500 mg daily is cited in one Australian melasma-clinic review. (The Melasma Clinic)) | Some evidence for skin-brightening and pigment reduction; used as adjunct. (The Melasma Clinic) | • Relatively safe at lower oral doses.• May support pigment reduction when combined with other measures. | • Evidence is limited.• Quality control varies (brands, purity).• Not a substitute for other treatments. |
| Antioxidant Vitamins / Plant Extracts (e.g., Vitamin C, Vitamin E, grape seed extract, pycnogenol) | Many available in Australia via pharmacies/supplement stores. For example grape seed extract is mentioned for melasma in Australian context. (Healthylife) | Dose varies by supplement (check product). | Evidence weaker / smaller studies: antioxidants help oxidative-stress pathways, but less direct evidence for pigmentation compared to topicals. (The Melasma Clinic) | • Widely available and generally safe.• Good overall skin health benefit. | • Pigmentation-specific effects likely small/moderate.• May need long-term use.• Interactions/purity still matters. |
| “Whitening / Pigmentation” Supplements (e.g., “Whitening Supplement For Melasma” – Transino II) | Example: one Australian shop lists “Whitening Supplement For Melasma” with Tranexamic Acid ingredient. (aussieonlinebeauty.com.au) | Example: “Take 4 tablets a day (2 tablets each meal)” per listing. (aussieonlinebeauty.com.au) | These formulations often target pigmentation via amino-acid/inhibitor pathways (e.g., tranexamic acid) but evidence is variable and such claims often need caution. | • May target specific pathways relevant to pigment formation.• May appeal to those seeking targeted “brightening” support. | • Less regulated marketing (“whitening” claims) — need caution.• Tranexamic acid oral for melasma should be doctor-supervised (off-label in many cases).• Cost may be high, evidence modest. |
Quick Usage Tips from Experts
- Dosing & Timing: Start low (e.g., half dose for 1 week) to avoid GI upset; take with meals. Cycle 8-12 weeks on, 4 off for sustainability.
- Synergy: Stack glutathione + vit C for amplified results (mimics combo trials). Use with your TOSOWOONG cream for 2x fading speed.
- Lifestyle Boost: Eat antioxidant-rich foods (berries, tomatoes for lycopene); limit heat/UV—per 2025 Melasma Clinic guidelines.
- Cautions: Rare side effects include nausea (glutathione) or photosensitivity (vit C—double down on SPF). Not for under 18s without doc approval.
- Where to Buy: Amazon AU for fast Prime delivery (search “glutathione skin brightening”); Chemist Warehouse or Priceline for AU brands. Check for TGA approval.
⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind
- Supplements support treatment but are not a cure.
- Always use sunscreen daily—without it, melasma will keep coming back.
- Effects take time: expect 8–12 weeks of consistent use to see changes.
- Check with your doctor before starting, especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, or have health conditions.
🌸 Final Thoughts
Your Glow Journey Continues:
Healing pigmentation takes courage and patience — and you’re already doing both. Whether you choose supplements, serums, or lifestyle tweaks, every small step adds up. Stay kind to your skin, stay consistent, and remember: even on cloudy days, your glow deserves protection and care.
