According to the American Academy of Dermatology, <\/span>90 percent<\/span> of people who develop melasma are women (they\u2019re affected nine more times than men), many of whom form the condition when pregnant, which has been given the term \u201cmask of pregnancy.\u201d Melasma is present in <\/span>15% to 50% of pregnant women<\/span>. The prevalence varies between 1.5% and 33%, depending on the population. Persons of <\/span>any race can be affected<\/span>; however, melasma is more common in darker skin types than in lighter skin types, and it is significantly more common in light brown skin types.<\/span><\/p>\n While it can be obvious to detect melasma, a dermatologist typically uses a Wood\u2019s lamp \u2014\u00a0a specific type of light that\u2019s held up to the skin \u2014 to detect bacterial and fungal infections, as well as how many layers of the skin melasma has affected. In more severe cases, a biopsy may be performed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you\u2019re wondering how to get rid of melasma, several different dermatological procedures help control melasma, though it\u2019s not a 100% treatable condition. However, the best creams for melasma \u2014\u00a0 formulated with hydroquinone, retinol, Retin A, tranexamic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, and other exfoliating and brightening ingredients \u2014\u00a0 are often the first defense method.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Melasma creams lighten the skin differently, such as reducing melanin production, impeding pigment formation, encouraging cell turnover, or physically removing the dark patches. Topical treatments are the favored choice of many dermatologists because they\u2019re effective yet have minimal side effects. Melasma creams are most effective in treating epidermal melasma, which only affects the skin\u2019s top layer. Common active ingredients include hydroquinone, kojic acid, retinoids, niacinamide, and salicylic acid.<\/span><\/p>\n FULL LIST<\/p>\n Carrot & Stick Brightening Spot Treatment<\/a>, $70<\/strong><\/p>\n Murad Essential C<\/a> Da<\/b>y Moisture Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++, $65<\/b><\/p>\n Dermalogica<\/a> Pure Night, $82<\/b><\/p>\n Obagi<\/b><\/a> New Derm Clear, Prescription Only<\/b><\/p>\n Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare<\/a> Dark Spot Sun Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50, $42<\/b><\/p>\n Lanc\u00f4me<\/a> Renergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra Firming and Dark Spot Correcting Moisturizer SPF 30, $109<\/b><\/p>\n Strivectin<\/a> Advanced Retinol Intensive Moisturizer, $112<\/b><\/p>\n Glytone<\/a> Dark Spot Corrector, $38<\/b><\/p>\n Dr. Barbara Sturm<\/a> Brightening Face Lotion, $205<\/b><\/p>\n Shiseido<\/a> White Lucent Day Emulsion Broad Spectrum SPF 23, $70<\/b><\/p>\n Melina Organics Intimate Skin Brightening Gel, $28.65<\/b><\/p>\n Porcelana Dark Spot Corrector Plus Sunscreen<\/b>, $47.85<\/b><\/p>\n Skinfix<\/b><\/a> Correct Correct + Dark Spot Corrector, $60<\/b><\/p>\n There are four types of pigmentation patterns in melasma:<\/span><\/p>\n While over-the-counter hydroquinone creams typically cap at around 2%, dermatologists sometimes prescribe more potent formulas containing anywhere between 8 and 12%. Though the results are much quicker, stronger strengths should only be used for about three months before morphing into maintenance mode.<\/span><\/p>\n Though effective, hydroquinone is somewhat of a controversial ingredient. Studies revealed that it is potentially carcinogenic when<\/span> ingested by rats<\/span><\/a>, and it\u2019s been <\/span>banned in Europe<\/span><\/a> for years. While it\u2019s still widely available in the States, a similar ban was suggested in 2006. However, the Food and Drug Administration is still reviewing whether or not hydroquinone is truly skin safe as long-term use can lead to skin irritation and permanent depigmentation, which is why it\u2019s only available in small percentages in over-the-counter creams. As everyone\u2019s skin is different, the most significant safety measure you can take is to conduct a patch test first.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n BEST OVERALL<\/p>\n Carrot & Stick Brightening Spot Treatment<\/a>, $70<\/b> Formulyst<\/b><\/a> Dark Spot Solutions, $79<\/b> Murad Essential C<\/b><\/a> Day Moisture Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++, $65 Dermalogica<\/b><\/a> Pure Night, $82 Obagi<\/b><\/a> <\/b>New Derm Clear, Prescription Only Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare<\/b><\/a> Dark Spot Sun Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50, $42 Lanc\u00f4me<\/b><\/a> Renergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra Firming and Dark Spot Correcting Moisturizer SPF 30, $109 Strivectin<\/b><\/a> Advanced Retinol Intensive Moisturizer, $112 Glytone<\/b><\/a> Dark Spot Corrector, $38 Dr. Barbara Sturm<\/b><\/a> Brightening Face Lotion, $205 Shiseido<\/b><\/a> White Lucent Day Emulsion Broad Spectrum SPF 23, $70 Melina Organics Intimate Skin Brightening Gel, $28.65<\/b> Porcelana Dark Spot Corrector Plus Sunscreen, $47.85<\/b> Skinfix<\/a> Correct Correct+ Dark Spot Corrector, $60<\/b> There are several different kinds of hyperpigmentation, but melasma is a harder nut to crack when it comes to causes and treatment. In terms of appearance, melasma can be characterized by dark, discolored patches on the face in a symmetrical fashion.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Three common melasma facial patterns include the center of the face (centrofacial), cheekbones (malar), and jawbone (mandibular.) Though rare, it can also appear on the neck and forearms. It isn\u2019t entirely clear what causes melasma. However, it\u2019s associated with sun exposure (especially in the summer months), estrogen and progesterone sensitivity (think pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone therapy, etc.), stress, heredity, race, and anti-seizure medicine.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n According to the American Academy of Dermatology, <\/span>90 percent<\/span><\/a> of people who develop melasma are women (they\u2019re affected nine more times than men), many of whom form the condition when pregnant, which has been given the term \u201cmask of pregnancy.\u201d Melasma creams lighten the skin differently, such as reducing melanin production, impeding pigment formation, encouraging cell turnover, or physically removing the dark patches.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Topical treatments are the favored choice of many dermatologists because they\u2019re effective yet have minimal side effects. Melasma creams are most effective in treating epidermal melasma, which only affects the skin\u2019s top layer. Common active ingredients include hydroquinone, kojic acid, retinoids, and salicylic acid. Though effective, hydroquinone is somewhat of a controversial ingredient. Studies revealed that it is potentially carcinogenic when<\/span> ingested by rats<\/span><\/a>, and it\u2019s been <\/span>banned in Europe<\/span><\/a> for years.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n While it\u2019s still widely available in the States, a similar ban was suggested in 2006. However, the Food and Drug Administration is still reviewing whether hydroquinone cream for melasma is truly skin safe. Long-term use can lead to skin irritation and permanent depigmentation, which is why it\u2019s only available in small percentages in over-the-counter creams. There are additional ways you can slowly treat melasma, including hormone therapy, reducing stress levels, and tweaking your diet.<\/span><\/p>\n For some women, melasma disappears on its own \u2014 typically when associated with pregnancy or taking birth control pills. On the flip side, some people have melasma for years \u2014 or even a lifetime \u2014 so regular treatment (and daily sun protection) is needed to control the condition. Otherwise, it will come back. Standard treatment methods include:<\/p>\n Chemical peel for melasma Rebalance Your Hormones<\/p>\n Suppose you\u2019re looking for an alternative melasma treatment, and you\u2019re female. In that case, it can help rebalance your hormones because melanocytes are triggered by abnormal hormone levels, which often occur before, during, or after pregnancy. It can also be helpful to speak with your doctor about adjusting your birth control. For melasma in men and women not taking birth control or experiencing a pregnancy, a hormonal imbalance can be triggered by stress, poor liver health, and thyroid problems.<\/p>\n Tweak Your Diet – Vitamin C: Sure, C works topically to lighten and brighten the skin when applied topically, but eating brightly colored citrus fruits and vegetables helps promote skin health. Reduce Your Stress Levels Sources:<\/span> Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition caused by an overproduction of melanocytes, the cells that produce skin pigmentation. There are several different kinds of hyperpigmentation, but melasma is a harder nut to crack when it comes to causes and treatment. In terms of appearance, melasma can be characterized by dark, discolored patches on the face … <\/p>\nThe List\u00a0<\/b><\/h2>\n
The Different Types of Melasma<\/h2>\n
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![\"best](\"https:\/\/thedermreview.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/best-melasma-creams-1024x393.jpg\")
<\/p>\nThe Dangers Behind Hydroquinone<\/h2>\n
The Best Melasma Creams<\/h2>\n
\nCarrot & Stick’s Brightening Spot Treatment containts 2 highly effective plant-based compounds combine to correct the look of hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.<\/strong><\/p>\n
\nWhile it\u2019s technically not a cream, we wanted to point out that serums can also be effective in lightening dark patches \u2014 such as this effective formula. Developed for daily use, Formulyst\u2019s<\/a> Dark Spots Solution Serum targets the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone caused by hyperpigmentation. Formulated with HyWhite \u2013 an alpha linolenic acid that helps to lighten the appearance of dark spots and visibly improve the uniformity of the skin colour \u2013 and a lightweight molecular Hyaluronic acid \u2013 which gives an instantaneous moisture hit \u2013 this powerful serum intensely nourishes skin, while visibly improving the tone of the complexion.<\/p>\n
\n<\/b>Vitamin C helps brighten minor cases of melasma, but the added sun protection keeps dark patches from getting out of hand. Of course, C is also a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against environmental stressors. Lastly, it provides the perfect amount of moisture that all skin types can benefit from.<\/p>\n
\n<\/b>Formulated with niacinamide, vitamin C, and zinc glycinate, this nourishing night treatment cream works overtime to brighten and deeply hydrate the skin. Pumpkin enzyme improves texture while white bird of paradise seed extract restores the skin\u2019s luminosity. For an extra brightening effect use in conjunction with Dermalogica\u2019s<\/a> C-12 Pure Bright Serum.<\/p>\n
\n<\/b>As it contains a potent 4% hydroquinone, you\u2019re going to need a prescription. It\u2019s a great option for those with stubborn melasma who aren\u2019t responding well to over-the-counter creams. Obagi<\/a> actually has complete systems to target dark spots as well as aging skin, so speak to your healthcare provider to see which products would be best for you.<\/p>\n
\n<\/b>Three forms of vitamin C and melatonin, vitamin E, and broad-spectrum sunscreen significantly reduce the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone while protecting the skin from further damage. SPF 50 is the highest FDA-allowed level of suncare available, and it\u2019s non-comedogenic therefore suitable for all skin types. It also works as a moisturizer, thanks to hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and evening primrose oil.<\/p>\n
\n<\/b>This melasma cream is an excellent choice for those who are battling age along with dark patches. Hydroquinone-free, glycolic acid is the key ingredient that improves skin texture, reduces wrinkles and pigmentation, lifts, and firms. The addition of an SPF 30 protects the skin from the sun\u2019s damaging rays during the day, and it\u2019s oil-free so it won\u2019t clog pores.<\/p>\n
\n<\/b>Sure, this is an anti-aging cream \u2014 but retinol stimulates cell turnover and inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme our skin needs to produce melanin, which means it\u2019s an effective option for treating melasma, too. It should be used at night and paired with sunscreen during the day. Never use retinol (over-the-counter or prescription) when pregnant.<\/p>\n
\n<\/b>Hydroquinone (2%), kojic acid, and glycolic acid work together synergistically to fade dark patches while brightening the skin\u2019s overall appearance. As with other products of this nature, only apply it to the areas you\u2019re trying to treat \u2014 not your entire face. The bottle features a dab-on sponge top making it easier to target areas of concern.<\/p>\n
\n<\/b>It\u2019s time you became familiar with cress sprout extracts because they\u2019re known to inhibit melanin production and brighten the complexion. As it also contains ginseng extract and vitamin E, it protects against free radical damage (including sun exposure), making it a good pick for those who live in warmer climates or spend a lot of time in the sun.<\/p>\n
\n<\/b>Formulated with Shiseido\u2019s<\/a> proprietary ReNeura Technology+, this daytime SPF improves the appearance of dark spots and the signs of aging while promoting a vibrant, bright complexion. Additionally, it protects the skin from pollen and air pollutants while providing moisture to lessen the fine lines and dryness.<\/p>\n
\nThis melasma cream is perfect for those who are wary of using hydroquinone. While it was initially developed for sensitive areas such as your bikini line or underarms, it can be used anywhere where pigmentation is concerned. It\u2019s formulated with alpha-arbutin, gentler glycosylated hydroquinone rather than a more potent concentration. Additionally, it contains green tea extracts, citric acid, lemon essential oil, and other naturally-derived skin lighteners. It\u2019s also highly moisturizing and soothing, so no need to worry about any dryness associated with your treatment.<\/p>\n
\nWhile most melasma creams are designed to be worn at night, this formula protects your skin during the daytime, thanks to a UVB absorber and antioxidants. However, it also contains hydroquinone to help fade existing dark spots while your skin is protected from future damage. Prefer a P.M. treatment? There\u2019s also a nighttime formula minus the SPF.<\/p>\n
\nThis vegan and gluten-free cream (in recyclable packaging to boot) is formulated with 13% strength alpha hydroxy acids to gently exfoliate, .25% Tumeric to minimize the appearance of dark spots, and 2% Kakadu plum to brighten and protect. Not only is it effective in treating melasma, but it also helps with pigmentation related to acne scarring.<\/p>\nMelasma Treatment: The Bottom Line<\/b><\/h2>\n
FAQs<\/h6>\n
\nMicrodermabrasion
\nDermabrasion
\nLaser treatments
\nDermaplaning
\nLight-based therapy
\nSunscreen (more of a preventative measure than a treatment)
\nPrescription tretinoin, corticosteroids, or hydroquinone (or a Triple Cream with all three)
\nOver-the-counter topical creams with a less intense percentage of hydroquinone or other lightening and exfoliating ingredients such as kojic acid, retinol, Retin A, vitamin C.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nWhile topical treatments and procedures can be useful, treating melasma from the inside out with a healthy diet is also beneficial. Ingredients and foods to look for include:<\/p>\n
\n– Hydroquinone: While topical hydroquinone is an effective ingredient in treating melasma, it\u2019s sometimes considered a last result because it can cause permanent skin discoloration if it\u2019s too strong or not used correctly. You can take it internally by consuming berries, pears, wheat products, coffee, and tea.
\n– Kojic Acid: Love Japanese food? You\u2019re in luck because fermented ingredients such as soy sauce, sake, and rice wine are chock-full of kojic acid.
\n– Indole 3 Carbinol: This ingredient helps break down estrogen. You can find it in healthy veggies like broccoli, kale, cauliflower, and cabbage.
\n– DIM (Diindolylmethane): Found in vegetables like cabbage and broccoli, DIM helps regulate hormone levels.
\nVitamins for Melasma Treatment: All of the above can be taken as a supplement as well.<\/p>\n
\nStress can disrupt your hormonal levels, exasperating melasma. While it\u2019s easier said than done, make a conscious effort to reduce your stress levels through meditation, regular exercise, breathing techniques, monitoring your alcohol intake, getting quality sleep, and taking a few moments throughout the day to step outside. Maybe even taking a quick walk around the block.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n\u201c<\/span>Melasma: Diagnosis and Treatment,<\/span><\/a>\u201d American Academy of Dermatology Association.
\n<\/span>\u201c<\/span>Melasma<\/span><\/a>,\u201d NCBI, January 2021.
\n<\/span>\u201c<\/span>Hydroquinone<\/span><\/a>,\u201d U.S. Food & Drug Administration Department of Health and Human Services, May 2009.
\n<\/span>\u201c<\/span>OPINION ON deoxyarbutin Tetrahydropyran Yloxy Phenol,<\/span><\/a>\u201d Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, June 2015.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"