When is hydroquinone treatment recommended for melasma?

Melasma causes brown or grey-brown patches, often on the face, and can become more noticeable with sunlight, visible light, heat, or hormonal changes. Because several pigment conditions can look similar, confirmation matters before using a lightening medicine. The pattern, depth of pigment, skin sensitivity, pregnancy status, and previous treatments can all influence the choice.

Hydroquinone reduces pigment production in treated skin. It may be one part of care rather than the whole plan. Ongoing light protection and gentle skincare help limit renewed darkening, while irritation can make melasma more noticeable.

Apply the prescribed amount to the specified patches and keep follow-up appointments. Use broad-spectrum sun protection, a hat, and shade when outdoors; heat and bright light may also aggravate facial pigment for some people. Choose a gentle cleanser and moisturiser, and avoid picking, scrubbing, or introducing several active products at once.

Do not use hydroquinone on eyelids, lips, broken skin, or irritated areas unless specifically instructed. Stop and contact your clinician for severe stinging, swelling, blistering, persistent redness, or unusual blue-black darkening. Discuss pregnancy, breastfeeding, and other medicines before starting.

Arrange assessment for a new facial patch that is rapidly changing, painful, bleeding, crusted, or unlike your usual melasma. Contact the prescriber if the pattern spreads, the skin becomes inflamed, or colour becomes uneven during treatment. A review can distinguish recurrence from irritation or another diagnosis.

Ask whether the pattern is melasma, which formula and schedule fit your skin, and how long the trial should continue before review. Ask about pregnancy or breastfeeding precautions, sun and heat protection, and alternatives if your skin becomes irritated.