Melasma Treatment: 3 Best Cream in Pakistan

Are you looking for melasma treatment? Melasma is a frustrating skin condition that leads to dark brown or grayish patches on the face, neck, and forearms. If you’re struggling with uneven pigmentation, you’re not alone. Women with darker skin tones, particularly those exposed to hormonal changes and UV radiation, are more prone to melasma. Genetics can also contribute to its development, making prevention difficult.

If you’re searching for the best melasma creams in Pakistan, it’s essential to choose a clinically proven, dermatologist-recommended product. The right cream can help lighten pigmentation, restore an even skin tone, and prevent further darkening.

In this article, we’ll explore the most effective melasma creams, their key ingredients, and advanced treatment options available in Pakistan.

Causes of Melasma

The exact cause of melasma is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to its development:

✔ Sun Exposure – Ultraviolet (UV) rays stimulate melanocytes (pigment-producing cells), leading to excessive melanin production. This is why melasma often worsens in summer.

✔ Hormonal Changes – Pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone therapy can trigger melasma due to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone.

✔ Genetics – People with a family history of melasma are more likely to develop it.

✔ Skin Irritation – Certain harsh skincare products or treatments may irritate the skin and lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

✔ Heat and Visible Light – In addition to UV rays, heat and blue light from screens can also contribute to melasma, making sun protection crucial.

If you’re searching for the best melasma cream in Pakistan, choosing a dermatologist-recommended product with clinically proven ingredients is essential. The right cream can help reduce pigmentation, even out skin tone, and prevent further darkening. Below, we explore the top melasma treatments available in Pakistan and how they work.

Ingredients to look in Melasma Cream:

Melasma creams work by targeting melanin production, reducing inflammation, and promoting skin renewal. Below are some of the most effective treatments.

1. Hydroquinone Cream (2-4%) – The Gold Standard for Melasma

Hydroquinone is a powerful skin-lightening agent that works by blocking melanin production. Dermatologists widely prescribe it for treating melasma, hyperpigmentation, and sunspots.

• Reduces excessive melanin, fading dark patches over time
• Best used under medical supervision to prevent skin thinning and irritation
• Often combined with tretinoin and corticosteroids for enhanced results

Hydroquinpne creams can make your skin dry and sensitive to sun exposure. Therefor, its proper usage according to dermatologist is recommended. Always do a patch test and use moisturizer

2. Azelaic Acid Cream – A Safe Alternative for Sensitive Skin

Azelaic acid is a gentle yet effective option, particularly for pregnant women or those with sensitive skin.

• Blocks tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production
• Reduces inflammation, making it suitable for acne-prone skin
• Can be used long-term without the risks associated with hydroquinone

3. Tretinoin (Retinoid) Cream – Boosts Skin Cell Renewal

Tretinoin, a vitamin A derivative, works by increasing skin cell turnover, helping to fade dark spots faster.

• Exfoliates pigmented skin cells, reducing melasma patches
• Stimulates collagen production, improving skin texture
• Frequently used in combination with hydroquinone and corticosteroids

4. Kojic Acid & Arbutin Creams – Natural Brightening Power

These natural skin-brightening agents effectively target melasma while being gentler than hydroquinone.

• Kojic acid (derived from fungi) inhibits melanin production
• Arbutin (a plant-based ingredient) works similarly to hydroquinone but with fewer side effects
• Helps reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) caused by acne or sun exposure

5. Tranexamic Acid Cream – The New Breakthrough for Stubborn Melasma

Originally used to treat bleeding disorders, tranexamic acid has shown remarkable results in melasma treatment.

• Prevents melanin deposits, helping to fade stubborn dark patches
• Blocks UV-triggered pigmentation, reducing the chances of new spots forming
• Available in both oral and topical formulations

Which Melasma Creams Are the Best in Pakistan?

Several local pharmaceutical companies offer highly effective combination creams that target melasma at its source.

1. Melaneez Cream – A Gentle Yet Powerful Skin Brightener

(Manufactured by Health Serving)

Key Ingredients:

• Alpha Arbutin – A natural skin-lightening agent that reduces melanin production
• Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C) – Brightens skin and improves texture
• Avobenzone – Provides UV protection, preventing further pigmentation
• Kojic Acid Dipalmitate – Fades dark spots and inhibits new pigmentation
• Hyaluronic Acid – Deeply hydrates and smoothens the skin

Why Choose It?

• Ideal for long-term melasma management
• Best suited for sensitive skin
• Reduces pigmentation without the harsh effects of hydroquinone

2. Hyderquin Plus Cream – The Triple Action Formula

(Manufactured by ATCO Laboratories)

Key Ingredients:

• Hydroquinone – Reduces melanin production for effective skin lightening
• Tretinoin – Increases skin cell turnover, accelerating pigment removal
• Fluocinolone Acetonide – A mild corticosteroid that reduces inflammation

Why Choose It?

• One of the most effective prescription-based melasma treatments
• Best for severe pigmentation cases
• Should only be used under dermatologist supervision

3. Melasco Cream – A Potent Alternative to Hydroquinone

(Manufactured by Dermalogics)

Key Ingredients:

• Alpha Arbutin – Inhibits melanin production, reducing dark patches
• Kojic Acid – Brightens uneven skin tone
• Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate) – Enhances skin clarity and refines texture
• Niacinamide – Reduces inflammation and strengthens the skin barrier
• Hyaluronic Acid – Provides deep hydration for plumper, healthier skin

Why Choose It?

• A great alternative for those who cannot tolerate hydroquinone
• Effective for both mild and stubborn melasma
• Hydrates and improves overall skin texture

What Other Melasma Treatments Are Available in Pakistan?

While melasma creams play a crucial role in treatment, additional therapies can speed up results and prevent recurrence.

1. Chemical Peels – Exfoliate and Renew

Chemical peels containing glycolic acid, lactic acid, or salicylic acid remove superficial pigmented layers, promoting new skin growth.

2. Laser Therapy – Targeting Stubborn Pigmentation

Fractional CO2 Laser and Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser effectively break down excess melanin deposits. However, laser treatments should always be performed by a certified dermatologist to avoid complications.

3. Sunscreen – The Most Important Step in Melasma Treatment

A broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen containing iron oxide is essential. It blocks UVA, UVB, and visible light, which can worsen melasma. Even indoor light and blue light from screens contribute to pigmentation, so daily sun protection is a must.

Final Thoughts: Which Melasma Cream Should You Choose?

Effectively managing melasma requires a combination of targeted melasma treatments and preventive measures. Topical creams play a crucial role in reducing pigmentation and evening out skin tone, while advanced dermatological treatments such as chemical peels and laser therapy can further enhance results. However, without proper sun protection, even the most effective treatments may not deliver lasting benefits. You can find the best melasma creams in Pakistan at derma.pk.

Consistently using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 is essential to prevent UV-induced pigmentation and melasma recurrence. In addition, maintaining a healthy skincare routine that includes antioxidants, hydrating agents, and gentle exfoliants can support skin renewal and improve overall results. Consult with Dermatologist to ensure the treatment is both safe and effective.