How long does hydroquinone treatment take to work for melasma?

Melasma involves increased pigment activity, often across matching areas of the face. Hydroquinone slows pigment formation in the skin where it is applied, but existing pigment still has to shed as skin renews. Sunlight, visible light, heat and hormonal changes may encourage fresh pigment, which can make progress look uneven.

Melasma may need maintenance or a different combination after the initial course. Learn about the condition in [Melasma](/conditions/melasma/) and the medicine in [Hydroquinone Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-hydroquinone-therapy/).

Follow the prescribed schedule and apply a thin layer only where directed. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, a hat and shade help limit new pigment; reapply sunscreen as instructed for your product and exposure. Keep the routine gentle and avoid picking, scrubbing or introducing several new active products at once.

Compare photos taken in similar light rather than checking the mirror repeatedly. If there is little change after the agreed review period, the clinician can reassess the diagnosis, triggers and treatment plan.

Tell your clinician about significant stinging, redness, scaling, swelling or blistering. Stop and seek prompt advice for blue-black or unusual darkening in the treated area. A rapidly changing or one-sided patch also deserves an examination instead of self-treatment.

Is this melasma superficial, deeper or mixed? What review date should we use? How will I protect against daylight and heat? What is the plan if melasma returns after treatment?