After four years of trying everything, I finally got my melasma under control. If you’re dealing with stubborn hyperpigmentation, here’s what actually made the difference.

Before we get into what worked, it helps to understand what melasma actually is. Melasma is a chronic skin condition caused by excess melanin production, which shows up as patches of hyperpigmentation. It’s commonly triggered by UV exposure, hormonal shifts, and genetics.

There is no permanent cure. Melasma is something you manage, not eliminate. Skincare can keep it under control, and treatments like lasers and chemical peels can help, but they are supportive, not permanent solutions. There is no one time fix. Long term consistency and a maintenance strategy are what make the difference.

Step 1: Sunscreen Is Everything

SPF 50 minimum.
Reapply every two hours.
Use enough.
Tinted sunscreen and zinc based Mineral sunscreen are best because it protects against visible light.

No treatment will work if you are not strict about sun protection. 

Wear a wide brim hat, a baseball cap is not enough coverage as the sun hits your cheeks. I bought this hat for the beach, it ships from Australia. Otherwise here is my straw hat collection. I did a post on my favorite Korean sunscreens. I use this sunscreen stick to reapply on the go. I also bought these sunscreen clear patches that you put on your cheeks but they are so tricky to apply!  Tinted sunscreen is really good for melasma. My favorite right now is RMS SuperNatural Radiance Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen. 

Step 2: Focus on Tyrosinase Inhibitors

Tyrosinase is the enzyme that creates pigment. Blocking it slows new discoloration from forming.

Ingredients to look for:

Hydroquinone
Tranexamic Acid
Azelaic Acid
Alpha Arbutin
Vitamin C
Licorice Extract

They take months to work. Be patient.  I have used Naturium, Glutathione Ampoule, Naturium, Tranexamic Acid Serum,  Glytone and Azelaic Acid Cream. 

Alpha Hydroxy Acids are helpful either as in office peels or at home treatments. I have used Prequel  and Paula's Choice sparingly since they are strong. I also use a Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic every evening and previously used Brightening Treatment Pads every night and cut them in half so they last longer. It will show me that I didn't take off all my makeup even though I did a double cleanse. I use this at home peel a couple times a week now. I did a round of Dr. Idriss Major Fade Dark Spot kit, used the whole system until the containers were empty.

Right now I rotate products from Ranavat, Lion Pose, and Sachi Skin. These brands draw inspiration from Indian skincare traditions and focus on pigment correcting botanicals. I use the Ranavat oil once a week since it’s more occlusive.

What Gave Me Real Results

Prescription hydroquinone cycles
Tretinoin
Consistent exfoliation
Daily tyrosinase inhibitors
Periodic peels and laser

I used Musely for two cycles and saw about 50 percent reduction in the first five weeks. That was the biggest shift I had seen in years!

I paired it with Eucerin Radiant Tone Dual Serum Dark Spot Corrector during the day, which helps reduce melanin production over time. The serum contains Thiamidol, a patented tyrosinase inhibitor that slows pigment formation. It’s not fast acting, expect a few months of consistent use before seeing results. The formula is dual chamber, with one side containing emollients, so it’s thicker and should be applied after lighter serums. It is fragranced, which some people dislike, but I tolerated it well. Although it was just released in the U.S. in January 2025, it has been available internationally for longer and has shown impressive results.

What Didn’t Clear It Alone

Vitamin C. It brightened my skin, but it never cleared my melasma on its own. I’ve gone through multiple bottles from  Prequel  currently use Educated Mess, but previously used  Caudalie Vinoperfect.  

Step 3: In-Office Procedures

Chemical Peels

The Perfect Derma Peel $300

This is the same as the Vi Peel Precision Plus, which is the version that helps diminish pigmentation. Both peels have the same ingredients, but the Perfect Derma Peel has one extra ingredient and is half the price! I did a series of three with the boosters added and I felt I got more out of this than all the monthly facials I had been doing. Going forward, I plan to do this once a year and stop getting regular facials. Your face peels for one week, then your skin is sensitive for the next week, so it’s about two weeks without your regular skincare routine.

Lasers

Step 4: The Winning Product