La Roche-Posay Unveils MELA B3 in Kenya to Combat Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots
By Shadrack Nyakoe
La Roche-Posay, a globally renowned and Number 1 dermatologist-recommended skincare brand, has launched the MELA B3 product range, providing relief for millions of Kenyans suffering from hyperpigmentation—a condition characterized by dark spots, acne marks and uneven skin.
Hyperpigmentation is one of the most prevalent and challenging skin conditions to treat. Existing methods such as cosmetics, drugs, and laser treatments have proven ineffective or too expensive.
Cosmetics, for example, can be effective for mild hyperpigmentation and can be integrated into a daily skincare routine, but results may take several weeks to months to become noticeable.
Many cosmetics can cause skin irritation, redness, or peeling, especially those with higher-strength ingredients.
Laser treatments are an expensive option requiring multiple sessions, with potential side effects including redness, swelling, and temporary darkening of treated areas.
Additionally, laser treatments are not suitable for all skin types, particularly very dark skin tones.
Historically, solutions have focused on blocking melanin—the dark pigment in our skin. However, melanin is essential for protecting against UV rays and giving skin its unique tone.
Blocking melanin is not a viable long-term solution and often leads to high relapse rates.
MELA B3 represents the most advanced innovation in pigmentation treatment, delivering superior efficacy for all skin tones from the first week of use.
“MELA B3 respects the natural beauty of our skin, with clinically proven efficacy on all skin tones and types, including sensitive skin. Tested on all phototypes and various pigmentation disorders—such as age spots, sun spots, post-acne marks, and even persistent ones—MELA B3 demonstrates visible effectiveness,” said Edouard Homasson, General Manager Dermatological Beauty Division at L’Oréal.
Co-developed with leading dermatologists and experts in hyperpigmentation globally, MELA B3 contains Melasyl, Niacinamide 10%(Vitamin B3), and other dermatological actives in a comprehensive formula that targets all mechanisms involved in pigmentary disorders.
MELA B3, a peach-colored gel, feels incredibly light to the touch, absorbs quickly without stickiness, and is free from alcohol, ensuring it does not cause irritation.
“Harnessing 18 years of L’Oréal Research & Innovation, Melasyl is a unique multi-patented molecule: a revolutionary approach to fighting hyperpigmentation by intercepting excess melanin before it marks the skin,” added Mr Homasson. “MELA B3 is a rare breakthrough in the fight against pigmentation. Rather than blocking melanin, it captures melanin precursors, combating pigmentation quickly and effectively with visible results from the first week, without disrupting the skin’s natural processes or causing irritation.”
Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skin conditions worldwide, prompting many visits to dermatologists and doctors.
Despite its prevalence, effective and non-damaging solutions are rare, and many sufferers spend years trying to manage the condition.
Hyperpigmentation is often seen as an issue only for Caucasian skin, but it is increasingly common among people with dark skin.
According to a study by La Roche-Posay involving over 48,000 participants in 34 countries, 1 in 2 people suffers from pigmentary disorders.
The study also highlighted the significant impact these conditions have on mental wellness, with sufferers feeling less lovable, more discriminated against, and even “dirty.”
