Excess melanin deposition causes hyperpigmentation, a common dermatological disorder that leads to skin discoloration and an uneven skin tone. Traditional therapies such as topical creams and chemical peels have limitations due to insufficient skin penetration, lengthy treatment durations, and potential adverse effects. Transdermal drug administration has emerged as a viable alternative, offering improved therapeutic effectiveness, sustained release, and enhanced drug absorption. Among transdermal systems, microneedle-based patches have gained significant interest because of their ability to deliver active compounds directly through the skin, bypassing the stratum corneum. This study examines recent advancements in transdermal delivery for hyperpigmentation treatment, with a focus on dissolving microneedle (DMN) patches. Research indicates that DMN patches containing niacinamide, glabridin, and tranexamic acid exhibit greater skin-lightening effects than traditional topical formulations. Clinical studies have validated their safety, efficacy, and ability to reduce melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation with minimal side effects. Furthermore, novel polymeric formulations enhance drug absorption and stability, optimizing therapeutic outcomes. The use of multifunctional components, targeting tyrosinase inhibition, oxidative stress reduction, and melanin transfer, further improves depigmentation efficacy. The paper also highlights how emerging carriers, such as tetrahedral framework nucleic acids (tFNAs), may enhance drug delivery efficiency. As transdermal technologies continue to advance, microneedlebased approaches hold strong potential to transform hyperpigmentation treatment by providing a highly effective, non-invasive, and patient-friendly therapeutic option. Future research should focus on expanding clinical applications and refining formulation parameters to maximize benefits across diverse skin types.
Yadav et al. (2026) studied this question.