Skip to content

What Is Masonic Plus Cream Used For?: An Overview

3 min read

Over 40 million people worldwide are affected by hyperpigmentation disorders, a condition Masonic Plus Cream is formulated to address. The name "Masonic plus cream" can refer to different products, but its most common application, particularly in over-the-counter versions, is for treating various forms of skin discoloration and promoting a more even skin tone.

Quick Summary

This article explains the different formulations associated with the name "Masonic plus cream," outlining the uses, ingredients, and necessary precautions for both the over-the-counter and prescription versions, focusing on hyperpigmentation, melasma, and dark spots.

Key Points

  • Two Distinct Products: The name can refer to an over-the-counter (OTC) cosmetic brightening cream or a prescription-strength medicine, Metasone Plus Cream.

  • OTC Version's Use: The OTC Masonic Plus Cream is used for cosmetic purposes, including brightening skin and treating mild hyperpigmentation, dark spots, acne marks, and uneven skin tone.

  • Prescription Version's Use: The prescription Metasone Plus Cream is a potent triple-combination medication for more severe melasma and significant pigmentation disorders.

  • OTC Key Ingredients: The over-the-counter formulation typically contains less potent brightening agents like Alpha Arbutin, Kojic Acid, and Niacinamide.

  • Prescription Key Ingredients: The prescription version contains Hydroquinone, Mometasone (a steroid), and Tretinoin (a retinoid).

  • Important Safety Precaution: A patch test is recommended for the OTC version, while the prescription version requires strict medical supervision due to significant potential side effects, including skin thinning.

In This Article

The term "Masonic plus cream" can be confusing, as it is associated with different products, including some over-the-counter (OTC) cosmetic formulations and potent prescription medicines with a similar name, such as "Metasone Plus Cream". Understanding the distinct uses and ingredients of each is critical for safe and effective treatment. This article will clarify what these different creams are used for.

Masonic Plus Cream (OTC version) for Cosmetic Hyperpigmentation

The OTC version of Masonic Plus Cream is a skincare product formulated to address cosmetic concerns related to hyperpigmentation. It is often sold without a prescription and contains a blend of active ingredients designed to brighten the skin and improve texture.

How the OTC cream works

The OTC formula typically includes ingredients like Alpha Arbutin, Kojic Acid Dipalmitate, Niacinamide, Pine Bark Extract, Allantoin, and Glycerin. These work together to inhibit melanin production, reduce discoloration, provide antioxidant benefits, and soothe and hydrate the skin.

Primary uses of the OTC cream

The OTC cream is primarily used to target and lighten:

  • Age spots
  • Acne marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
  • Mild melasma
  • Uneven skin tone

Prescription Creams: Metasone Plus Cream

A prescription product known as Metasone Plus Cream contains a powerful triple-combination of medications used for more severe dermatological conditions. It requires medical supervision and is not a cosmetic treatment. Some regional suppliers may use “Masonic plus cream” to market this product.

How the prescription cream works

Metasone Plus Cream contains three active ingredients:

  • Hydroquinone: A strong skin-lightening agent that inhibits melanin production.
  • Mometasone: A potent corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, redness, and itching.
  • Tretinoin: A retinoid that increases skin cell turnover to help remove pigmented cells.

Primary uses of the prescription cream

The prescription cream is used for:

  • Moderate to severe melasma that does not respond to cosmetic treatments.
  • Other severe hyperpigmentation disorders under medical guidance.

Comparison: Masonic Plus (OTC) vs. Metasone Plus (Prescription)

Feature Masonic Plus Cream (OTC) Metasone Plus Cream (Prescription)
Primary Use Mild hyperpigmentation, cosmetic brightening, and uneven skin tone. Moderate to severe melasma and other significant pigmentation issues.
Active Ingredients Alpha Arbutin, Kojic Acid, Niacinamide, Pine Bark Extract. Hydroquinone, Mometasone (Steroid), Tretinoin (Retinoid).
Availability Available over-the-counter. Requires a doctor's prescription.
Strength Moderate, focuses on cosmetic results. Strong, medically potent combination for advanced cases.
Safety & Precautions Patch test recommended. Lower risk of severe side effects. Higher risk of skin thinning, irritation, and other side effects. Sun protection is crucial.
Duration of Use Can be used long-term under general skincare guidance. Used for short durations as prescribed by a doctor to avoid side effects.

Potential side effects and safety considerations

The OTC Masonic Plus Cream generally has mild side effects like minor irritation, especially for sensitive skin. A patch test is recommended.

The prescription Metasone Plus Cream carries more significant risks due to its potent ingredients. Potential side effects include skin thinning, increased sensitivity, burning, itching, redness, allergic contact dermatitis, and adrenal gland problems with long-term use of the steroid component. Sun protection is crucial for both products, but particularly with the prescription cream. Consulting a dermatologist is recommended for appropriate treatment, especially for moderate or severe hyperpigmentation.

Conclusion

Masonic Plus Cream (OTC) is primarily used for cosmetic management of mild hyperpigmentation and skin brightening with ingredients like Alpha Arbutin and Niacinamide. Metasone Plus Cream (prescription) is a potent medication for moderate to severe melasma, containing Hydroquinone, Mometasone, and Tretinoin, and requires medical supervision due to higher side effect risks. Always verify the product's ingredients and consult a healthcare professional for safe and effective treatment.

Additional Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, but it depends on the formulation. The OTC cosmetic version is intended for mild melasma and general brightening, while the prescription Metasone Plus Cream is specifically formulated to treat moderate to severe melasma using a more potent combination of active ingredients.

For the OTC version, side effects are usually mild and may include temporary burning, itching, or irritation. The prescription version has more significant risks, such as severe irritation, skin thinning, increased sensitivity, and allergic reactions.

The safety of long-term use depends on the specific cream. The OTC version, with less potent ingredients, is generally considered safer for prolonged use under general skincare guidance. The prescription Metasone Plus Cream is not safe for long-term use and should only be used for the duration prescribed by a doctor.

The answer varies based on the product. The OTC cosmetic Masonic Plus Cream does not require a prescription. However, if you are looking for the potent triple-combination cream for melasma (Metasone Plus Cream), a doctor's prescription is required.

The prescription cream (Metasone Plus) is typically recommended for use at night. For either cream, it is essential to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day to protect your skin, as the ingredients can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

Results can vary. For the OTC version, visible improvements might be seen within a few weeks of regular use. With the prescription version, initial improvement may be seen within two weeks, but full results may take 2 to 3 months.

Users with sensitive skin should exercise caution with any topical cream. A patch test is recommended before applying the OTC version to larger areas. For the prescription Metasone Plus Cream, individuals with sensitive skin are at a higher risk for irritation and should consult their doctor.

References

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.