this can stay in your routine.
Hydroquinone is the gold-standard melasma treatment.
how to use it. Rx only in US. Cycled: 3 months on, 3 months off, to prevent ochronosis.
why it works. Direct tyrosinase inhibition and melanosome disruption. Most robust efficacy in RCT literature.
Reviewed with 2 sources on 2026-07-03.
also about melasma
Alpha Arbutin for Melasma
Alpha arbutin is a reasonable OTC melasma adjunct.
also about melasmaAzelaic Acid for Melasma
Azelaic acid is a well-tolerated melasma option, especially in pregnancy or hydroquinone-sensitive users.
also about melasmaGlycolic Acid (AHA) for Melasma
Glycolic acid can worsen melasma in the wrong hands.
also about melasmaKojic Acid for Melasma
Kojic acid is a useful melasma adjunct.
also about melasmaL-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) for Melasma
L-ascorbic acid is a useful adjunct for melasma but rarely sufficient alone.
also about melasmaRetinoids for Melasma
Retinoids assist in melasma treatment but can worsen it if used aggressively or without strict SPF.