Benefits
Works with
When to use
Caution with
Dermatologist science score
What is the summary?
- Lytera 2.0 contains a blend of scientifically proven pigment correctors
- The main indication is melasma & pigment treatment
- It is free from hydroquinone
- Lytera can be used up to twice a day application
- It is available online & in some stores without a prescription
- It is one of the most expensive pigment correctors on the market
- It is useful during the maintenance phase of melasma management
- Licorice root extract lightens skin through the inhibition of melanin (pigment).
What is it?
Lytera 2.0 is a home treatment for pigmentation, including melasma & post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
It comes as a premixed formulation of key ingredients that suppress pigment production. It takes the guesswork out of balancing different pigment correctors in the one application.
What are the ingredients in Lytera?
Lytera 2.0 combines key ingredients in optimal concentrations. They include-
Tranexamic Acid (3%) – Reduces the appearance of discoloration by inhibiting pathways that cause pigmentation, particularly effective for melasma.
Resorcinol (1%) – A potent antioxidant that helps reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production.
Niacinamide (5%) or vitamin B3 helps brighten skin tone, reduce inflammation, and improve the skin barrier, making it effective for reducing discoloration.
Phytic Acid – Acts as a gentle exfoliant, helping to improve skin texture and promote a brighter complexion by removing dead skin cells.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E): An antioxidant that helps protect the skin from environmental damage.
Additional Ingredients: Glycerin, Squalane.
When will I see results?
Melasma lightning can be seen in as little as 4 weeks, with maximal results in 3 months. Lytera 2.0 is best for superficial forms of melasma. As with other creams, it has little to no impact on dermal melasma.
How does it work?
Lytera’s combination of ingredients targets multiple pathways in melanin formation, making it effective for a wide range of pigmentation concerns, including stubborn melasma.
It’s often used as part of a daily skincare routine and is recommended to be used along with broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent UV-induced pigmentation.
Is it safe on all skin tones?
Lytera & Lytera 2.0 can be safely used on all skin types without the risks of permanent bleaching or pigment worsening.
Can it be used in pregnancy?
Yes. Lytera 2.0 does not contain retinol, retinoids or hydroquinone.
More on treating melasma in pregnancy.
What are the side effects of Lytera?
Unlike hydroquinone, Lytera has a favorable safety profile. It is much less irritating compared to HQ. Additionally it can be used long term.
Side effects are limited to transient redness & skin irritation. Allergic reactions are exceedingly rare.
Why is Lytera 2.0 so expensive?
It’s because it is owned by SkinMedica, who is owned by Allergan, the maker of Botox. The pharmaceutical industry exists for the sole purpose of increasing their stock prices. By offering an exclusive product, SkinMedica can charge an arm and a leg for Lytera 2.0.
Cost range between $170 to 200 USD – or over $240 AUD.
What is an example of a melasma skin care routine using Lytera 2.0?
A simple melasma skincare routine is as follows:
AM: Lytera, SPF 50+ tinted
Midday: Sunscreen reapplication, lotion, stick or spray.
PM: Lytera nightly
Note: The greatest traction of any melasma skincare routine is the correct application of sunscreen. This has a much greater impact on melasma than any marketing objective of any skin care ingredient.
Does Lytera 2.0 contain hydroquinone?
Lytera 2.0 is HQ free & does not have any long term issues.
Topical |
Irritant potential |
Long term use |
Efficacy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lytera | Low | Safe | Moderate |
| Hydroquinone | High | Unsafe | Good |
Which is better; Meladerm, Mela Cream or Lytera 2.0?
In our experience all the above melasma creams have an efficacy rate of around 20-30% for mixed-superficial melasma.They are not as effective as medical or prescription creams however they all have a favorable side effect profile, as compared to stronger ingredients such as hydroquinone & cysteamine.
Is Lytera effective in all cases of melasma?
No. It has a lower hit rate compared to medically prescribed formulations. Lytera 2.0 works in about 20-25% of melasma cases.
*To be fair there is no treatment that is 100% effective for melasma. Melasma responds best to pico lasers or novel peels coupled with medical therapy. Even then, our hit rate is 80-85% at best.
What is the best cream for melasma?
Cream formulations for melasma depends on many factors including-
Your type of melasma
Previous history of response or failures
Your skin’s irritant potential or sensitivity
Your previous treatment cycles
Your conception plans
Your preference for fluffy treatments or medical therapy
Your commitment to follow ups
Prescriptive medications are far more effective, however have higher side effects. Whilst over the counter creams are safer but less effective.
Creams are best employed with a pico laser program for melasma for faster results.
A SummaryDavin’s viewpoint on Lytera 2.0 for melasma & pigmentation
Dr Davin Lim | Dermatologist
The Melasma Clinic, Brisbane | Sydney
Launched in 2017, Lytera 2.0 by a subsidiary of Allergan (Botox), promised to be the next big thing in the fight against melasma pigmentation. We had hopes. Briefly.
Much like Meladerm, Mela Cream, Melarase, Lytera is useful in a subset of patients, namely superficial pigment or as part of rotational therapy. Unlike HQ, there are no long term issues with continued use of Lytera 2.0. If it works, use it. If not, you have just wasted $240.
