Ayurveda intervention in Riehl’s melanosis- A case report

Abstract

Riehl’s melanosis (RM) is frequently identified as a kind of facial melanosis known as pigmented contact dermatitis (PCD). It results from cosmetic fragrances and their other products. The pigmentation on the forehead, temporal, and zygomatic areas of the face ranges from dark brown to grayish-brown. Satisfactory treatments are presently lacking leading to the psychological suffering of the patient. This study aims to find a promising solution for the RM WSR Dushi Visha. In the present case study, a 45-year-old female patient suffered from RM with blackish discoloration over the periorbital region, cheeks, and in the middle of the eyebrows with severe itching and dryness for the past 22 days. The patient was managed effectively with classical Ayurveda medications. In Ayurveda, this condition can be correlated with the symptoms of Mukhalepajanya Dushi Visha (artificial poison in the form of facial cosmetics), characterized by Mukhashyavata (blackish discoloration of the face), Kotha (round patches and rashes on the skin), intense Rukshata (dryness), and Kandu (itching sensation) followed by Daha (burning sensation). The principle of treatment is Raktamokshana (bloodletting) and drugs having Kushthaghna (antidermatosis), Kandughna (antipruritic), Raktashodhaka (blood purifier), Twak Prasadana (skin quality enhancer), and Varnyakara (promotes complexion) properties. The outcome of the assessment was based on the changes in the symptoms after 15 days of treatment. Recurrence of itching and burning was not observed during the follow-up period. The case sheds on the excellent management of RM by Ayurveda modalities.