The 10 Best Skin-Care Products for Melasma and Sun Spots in 2025, According to Doctors
Product ReviewsSkin & Hair ProductsSkin Care Products

The 10 Best Skin-Care Products for Melasma and Sun Spots in 2025

By
Published on September 16, 2025
by
Everyday Health independently vets all recommended products. If you purchase a featured product, we may be compensated. Learn why you can trust us.
More than five million people in the United States are affected by melasma.

 Melasma is characterized by “dark brown or gray brown spots on the skin, which are darker than the individual's natural skin tone,” says Michele Green, MD, a cosmetic dermatologist with a practice in New York City, who specializes in treating melasma.
Certain things, like UV exposure, can make melasma worse, warns Rachel Westbay, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist who treats melasma and other skin-care concerns at Marmur Medical in New York City. But not to worry, though melasma spots often become more visible as we age, they’re benign.

Melasma is sometimes also referred to as “age spots” (or “sun spots”); but even though the skin conditions appear identical, they’re technically different. Both are the result of an increase in melanin, which is a natural substance that causes pigmentation in skin, hair, and eyes, What sets melasma apart from age spots is that the condition can also be triggered by hormonal fluctuations in women, especially during pregnancy.

While they’re different conditions, treatment for melasma and age or sun spots is comparable. Doctors can treat the spots through in-office treatments, the use of devices, or by prescribing the lightening cream hydroquinone.

 You can also find treatments at the drugstore. Browse our doctor-approved recommendations for the best skin care for melasma you can buy over-the-counter, with a variety of skin-friendly ingredients to help you banish spots for good — with one caveat. If you don’t use a sunscreen with iron oxide, you won’t get any of the benefits from our list of helpful products. According to Green, sunscreen is essential for treating melasma. “It is important to avoid sun exposure and protect the skin, as UV rays can trigger melasma and worsen pigmentation. Even after treatment, melasma can come back with sun exposure, so sunscreen must be an essential part of daily skin care.” Add sunscreen to your routine, and consider these additional products to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy and happy.

Our Top Picks for the Best Skin Care for Melasma

When to Consult a Doctor

Melasma, age spots, and sun spots are all cosmetic concerns that can be addressed with over-the-counter skin care as well as in-office laser treatments, according to Dr. Green. But you should always keep an eye on any changes that might develop. “It’s important to understand that not all dark spots are just age spots or melasma,” cautions Green. “If you notice any new growth, itching, bleeding, or darkening of an existing spot, it’s crucial to see a board-certified dermatologist who can examine each one to rule out any possibility of skin cancer.”

Best Brightening

La Roche Posay Mela B3 Serum

$44.99 at Amazon
Buy on Amazon $44.99

Pros

  • Contains pro-cysteine technology that targets melanin overproduction
  • Includes niacinamide for brightening, anti-inflammatory, and skin-barrier benefits
  • Lightweight, fast-absorbing

Cons

  • Requires consistent daily use for optimal results
  • May cause irritation in some

Key Specs

  • Type: Serum
  • Active ingredient: Melasyl, 10 percent niacinamide
  • Skin type: Early-stage melasma
The La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Serum is a standout for overall skin brightening and reduction of persistent dark spots, including melasma. Its exclusive star ingredient is patented Melasyl, which works in conjunction with a high concentration of 10 percent niacinamide to help brighten skin and reduce dark spots.

 Dr. Westbay likes it for people with early-stage melasma who are looking for a gentle option to help brighten skin. Although the serum is gentle, it’s also effective, because in addition to containing Melasyl, the formula includes a 10 percent concentration of niacinamide. This ingredient can help prevent pigment from getting darker or more melanin getting produced, according to Westbay. “This is key in preventing pigment relapse,” she adds.

The glass bottle has a dropper for a hygienic application that’s easy to control for a targeted application so you don’t waste product. Our research found this product to be lightweight and nongreasy, leaving people with little irritation.

The antioxidant complex in this formula supports a process called tyrosinase inhibition, which is critical for the reduction of hyperpigmentation. Tyrosinase is an enzyme involved in melanin production, so limiting its activity can regulate how much pigment is made and, in turn, reduce the visible darkening of spots.

 With consistent use, it can prevent new dark spots and help to fade existing ones, leading to a visibly brighter and more even complexion.

Best for Sun Spots

SkinMedica Even & Correct Serum

$169.10 at Amazon
$178Now 5% Off
Buy on Amazon $169.10

Pros

  • Specially formulated to target UV-induced hyperpigmentation
  • Utilizes a blend of ingredients that act on multiple pigment pathways
  • Effective for all skin types

Cons

  • Priciest on our list
  • Noticeable results can take longer than five weeks

Key Specs

  • Format: Serum
  • Active ingredients: Tranexamic acid, phenylethyl resorcinol, niacinamide
  • Skin type: Mature, skin with melasma

The SkinMedica Even & Correct Serum is exceptionally well suited for targeting sun spots and other forms of UV-induced hyperpigmentation because of its blend of ingredients.

“This is one of the most thoughtfully formulated over-the-counter options for melasma because it targets multiple pathways in the pigment cycle without relying on hydroquinone, making it safe for long-term use and suitable for all skin tones,” says Westbay. Prescription hydroquinone, a common treatment doctors use, may cause irritation or exacerbate discoloration with long-term use.

This hydroquinone-free formula includes tranexamic acid, which can keep inflammation at bay. “[Tranexamic acid] helps calm the vascular and inflammatory triggers of melasma,” says Westbay.

 Another star ingredient includes phenylethyl resorcinol, which can slow melanin production.

 Meanwhile, niacinamide works to prevent pigment transfer, meaning it blocks or slows melanin from moving from the cells where it's made to the upper layers of your skin to produce dark spots.

 Our research found that the formula doesn’t get sticky on your skin, especially if you use it in combination with other topicals. We also love the airless pump bottle that makes application both easy and precise.
Discoloration Defense Serum

Best for Uneven Skin Tone

SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense

Buy Now $118

Pros

  • Targets multiple pathways of pigmentation
  • Includes tranexamic acid, niacinamide, kojic acid
  • Does not include hydroquinone
  • Lightweight, fast-absorbing

Cons

  • Can take months for visible results
  • Not widely available online

Key Specs

  • Format: Serum
  • Active ingredients: Niacinamide, kojic acid
  • Skin type: Sensitive skin
The SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense Serum is a powerhouse for tackling various forms of uneven skin tone, including melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and sun spots. “This is a well-formulated, multi-targeted serum that effectively addresses melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone — all without the use of hydroquinone,” says Westbay. “It’s a standout product because it contains tranexamic acid, which helps suppress inflammation and vascular triggers of pigment.”

Other skin-healthy ingredients in this formula include niacinamide and kojic acid, which can help keep your skin from creating more or darkening spots. Kojic acid gently exfoliates, which promotes more even skin turnover.

 “What makes this serum especially appealing is that it’s well tolerated, even for sensitive skin, and it pairs beautifully with other active ingredients or in-office treatments,” says Westbay.

The glass bottle dropper helps with precise, controlled application, which makes using an expensive product more efficient. Our research found this product’s texture and lightweight, fast-absorbing consistency justifies the higher price point.

Best With Retinol

Paula's Choice CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment

$17.10 at Amazon
$18Now 5% Off
Buy on Amazon $17.10

Pros

  • Potent 1 percent retinol concentration reduces pigmentation
  • Includes peptides, vitamin C, licorice root extract
  • Lightweight
  • For use on all skin types

Cons

  • Retinol might cause dryness, redness, peeling
  • Might cause sensitivity in new users

Key Specs

  • Format: Cream
  • Active ingredients: 1 percent retinol, peptides, vitamin C, licorice root
  • Skin type: Mature, skin with melasma
Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment is a top contender for melasma and pigmentation with its high concentration of 1 percent pure retinol, delivered in a slow-release, skin-supportive formula to minimize irritation. “Retinols help increase the rate of skin cell turnover, which aids in removing dead skin cells and pigmented cells on the skin’s surface, revealing a brighter, fresher complexion underneath,” says Green. “[Retinols are] one of the most popular and effective treatments for reducing pigmentation,” adds Westbay. “Retinoids likely reduce the activity of tyrosinase, thus reducing the skin’s capability of producing pigment.”

Another melasma-busting ingredient in this cream is vitamin C, for skin brightening benefits, particularly those related to melasma.

 Something to note for folks with sensitive skin, or those unaccustomed to using retinol, our research shows this product may cause people to experience slight peeling at first, especially if you’re not accustomed to using products with retinol; but this will likely lessen over time.
Vitamin C Brightening Serum

Best With Vitamin C

Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum

Buy Now $85

Pros

  • Excellent for brightening dull skin and reducing dark spots, including melasma
  • Uses stable form of vitamin C
  • Provides some protection against future sun damage
  • Absorbs well with no residue

Cons

  • All vitamin C products eventually degrade, so proper storage is key
  • Attacks pigment with only one pathway

Key Specs

  • Format: Serum
  • Active ingredients: 15 percent vitamin C (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate)
  • Skin type: All
The Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum is exceptional at reducing pigmentation and boosting radiance, with 15 percent vitamin C in the form of tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (THDA).

 THDA is a stable, oil-soluble form of vitamin C that penetrates the skin more deeply to help lighten dark spots.

“[Vitamin C] protects the skin from the damage by free radicals caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light (sun damage),” says Green. In this way, the serum can prevent new sun spots or melasma from forming on the surface of the skin. This serum has a creamy, gel-like texture that absorbs well and doesn’t leave a tacky feel, which leaves skin smooth, according to our research. Additionally, it may even give skin a little glow upon application.

Best With Azelaic Acid

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension

$12.20 at Amazon
Buy on Amazon $12.20

Pros

  • Contains 10 percent azelaic acid to reduce the appearance of dark spots
  • Free from fragrance, parabens, dyes, mineral oil
  • Suitable for all skin types and tones

Cons

  • Texture may pill or feel grainy
  • May cause mild itching or stinging upon initial application

Key Specs

  • Format: Cream
  • Active ingredients: 10 percent azelaic acid
  • Skin type: Mild melasma, acne-prone skin

Westbay thinks the Ordinary’s Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% is “underrated,” and it’s one of her favorite over-the-counter products for treating melasma. The formula contains azelaic acid to reduce melanin production. Acids can be irritating to skin to people unaccustomed to using it, but in this formula, it’s delivered in a creamy format.

Azelaic acid also has anti-inflammatory effects which can make melasma appear less inflamed and help out with texture issues. “It’s safe for all skin types and tones, including during pregnancy, which makes it especially versatile,” explains Westbay.

 “It’s a great entry point for pigment correction that’s both affordable and evidence-based — a staple in any brightening regimen,” she adds. The synthetic silicone base also makes this a great product that can double as a primer, according to our research, but the texture may be too heavy for some to wear during the day under makeup. This variable is most likely dependent on skin type and personal preference.

Best With Tranexamic Acid

Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum

$11.97 at Amazon
Buy on Amazon $11.97

Pros

  • Tranexamic acid targets inflammation-induced hyperpigmentation
  • Includes niacinamide
  • Lightweight, easily absorbed texture
  • Generally well tolerated by most skin types
  • Easy-to-apply dropper format

Cons

  • May not be potent enough for very severe or long-standing melasma on its own
  • Results take over six weeks with continual use

Key Specs

  • Format: Serum
  • Active ingredients: 3 percent tranexamic acid, 4 percent niacinamide
  • Skin type: Early-stage melasma
The Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum is a highly efficient option for addressing melasma and general dark spots, primarily leveraging the power of 3 percent tranexamic acid and 4 percent niacinamide. “Tranexamic acid has a complicated and not entirely understood mechanism for targeting pigment,” says Westbay. “It’s been shown to inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators involved in triggering melanin production.”

The formula also contains skin-healthy niacinamide to help inhibit the transfer of pigment to skin cells and offer anti-inflammatory benefits, which is crucial for managing melasma.

 This straightforward, effective combination targets the root causes of discoloration and helps to visibly fade existing dark spots, making it an excellent choice for consistent use in a melasma regimen. The product is packaged in a glass bottle with a dropper, making controlled application easy.

Best With Niacinamide

Naturium Niacinamide Face Serum

$16.99 at Amazon
Check stock at Amazon

Pros

  • 12 percent niacinamide for maximum pigment-inhibiting, anti-inflammatory benefits
  • Lightweight
  • Generally well tolerated for wide range of skin types, including sensitive
  • Can improve overall skin texture and tone

Cons

  • Texture may feel slightly sticky to some
  • May need to be paired with other active ingredients for stubborn melasma

Key Specs

  • Format: Serum
  • Active ingredients: 12 percent niacinamide, 2 percent zinc PCA
  • Skin type: Acne-prone, all
The Naturium Niacinamide Face Serum stands out for its robust concentration of 12 percent niacinamide, combined with 2 percent zinc PCA, making it great for addressing pigmentation, particularly uneven skin tone and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) often associated with melasma.

We love the high concentration of niacinamide in this formula, higher than that of some serums on our list that also contain the ingredient. Because niacinamide is so effective at preventing melanin pigment from making spots darker, it’s highly beneficial for managing persistent melasma. It can also help “minimize redness and blotchiness, reduce pore size, regulate oil production, and prevent free radical damage,” according to Westbay. Its potent anti-inflammatory properties are also crucial for calming the skin and reducing redness often seen in melasma.

Naturium Niacinamide Face Serum has a lightweight texture that leaves behind a smooth complexion, though it can feel somewhat sticky as it dries. It’s packaged in a bottle with a pump dispenser, allowing for hygienic application.

Best With Glycolic Acid

First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads

$18 at Amazon
$20Now 10% Off
Buy on Amazon $18

Pros

  • Contains AHAs, lactic acid, glycolic acid to exfoliate pigmented skin cells
  • Helps to smooth skin texture, enhance radiance
  • Gentle enough for daily use and on sensitive skin
  • Convenient textured, presoaked pads

Cons

  • May not be potent enough for deep or stubborn melasma
  • Some may experience mild tingling or irritation

Key Specs

  • Format: Pads
  • Active ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid
  • Skin type: Sensitive, acne-prone, early-stage melasma
The First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads are an efficient tool for gently reducing pigmentation and revealing a brighter, more even complexion, primarily through their blend of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), lactic acid, and glycolic acid. “This alpha-hydroxy-acid (AHA) is moderately effective on its own by exfoliation,” says Westbay. By chemically exfoliating the outermost layer of the skin, the AHAs loosen the bonds between dead, pigmented skin cells and promote their shedding.

 “It’s more optimally used as an addition to formulations with other anti-pigment ingredients,” adds Westbay.
The pads are formulated to be gentle enough for daily use, even on sensitive skin, thanks to cucumber water, which can help soothe skin.

 Acne-prone skin types can especially benefit from AHAs, which are good at removing blackheads.

 Because these are presoaked pads, it’s easy to work them into your anti-melasma skin-care routine, after cleansing and before applying a pigment-reducing serum.

These pads are great for travel, so you can keep up your anti-melasma skin-care routine on the go. They’re lightly textured to provide gentle exfoliation while also letting the AHAs do their work on your skin. Additionally, the pads, which come in 28, 60, or 90 counts are also helpful in removing makeup and sunscreen that cleanser can leave behind. Our research found this unscented pad might still carry a scent, potentially due to the cucumber water or AHAs.

Best With Kojic Acid

Medicube Kojic Acid Turmeric Overnight Wrapping Peel Off Mask

$18.05 at Amazon
$19Now 5% Off
Buy on Amazon $18.05

Pros

  • Kojic acid targets melanin production to help fade dark spots.
  • Includes turmeric for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant benefits
  • Overnight mask format ensures prolonged contact with active ingredients

Cons

  • Mask format may not appeal to those with sensitive or reactive skin
  • May require two to three applications per week for noticeable results

Key Specs

  • Type: Mask
  • Active ingredient: Kojic acid, turmeric
  • Skin type: Early-stage melasma, all
The Medicube Kojic Acid Turmeric Overnight Wrapping Peel Off Mask is a unique and efficient approach to reducing pigmentation, using the brightening power of kojic acid, which can block melanin production and exfoliate skin at the same time.

 Another star ingredient in this mask is turmeric, an anti-inflammatory.

 The combo of these two ingredients keeps pigment from darkening and getting less inflamed, so melasma or spots appear less visibly red. When you reduce inflammation, you reduce the overall effect of skin discoloration, explains Westbay.

But what’s so cool about this product is its mask form. Although our product list prioritizes fast-absorbing serums, there’s always some risk of product transferring during sleep, especially if you don’t rub it in completely before your head hits the pillow. This mask has a gel-like texture that dries within minutes, allowing you to wear it overnight so that the acid penetrates and works undisturbed. When you peel the mask off, it physically lifts away dead pigmented cells.

Comparison Table

Superlative
Format
Active Ingredients
Skin Type
La Roche Posay Mela B3 Serum
Best Brightening
Serum
Melasyl, niacinamide
Early-stage melasma
Buy Now $44.99
SkinMedica Even & Correct Serum
Best for Sun Spots
Serum
Tranexamic acid, niacinamide, phenylethyl resorcinol
Mature skin, skin with melasma
Buy Now $169.10
SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense
Best for Uneven Skin Tone
Serum
Tranexamic acid, niacinamide, kojic acid, HEPES
Sensitive skin
Buy Now $115
Paula’s Choice CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment
Best With Retinol
Cream
Retinol, peptides, vitamin C, licorice root
Mature skin, skin with melasma
Buy Now $17.10
Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum
Best With Vitamin C
Serum
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (THD ascorbate)
All
Buy Now $85
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension
Best With Azelaic Acid
Cream
Azelaic acid
Mild melasma, acne-prone skin
Buy Now $12.20
Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum
Best With Tranexamic Acid
Serum
Tranexamic acid, niacinamide
Early-stage melasma, all
Buy Now $11.97
Naturium Niacinamide Face Serum
Best With Niacinamide
Serum
Niacinamide, zinc PCA
Acne-prone, all
Buy Now $16.99
First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads
Best With Glycolic Acid
Pads
Glycolic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid
Sensitive, acne-prone, early-stage melasma
Buy Now $18
Medicube Kojic Acid Turmeric Overnight Wrapping Peel Off Mask
Best With Kojic Acid
Mask
Kojic acid, turmeric
Early-stage melasma, all
Buy Now $18.05

How We Chose the Best Skin Care for Melasma

We consulted leaders in cosmetic and medical dermatology to find out which skin-care products safely and effectively treat melasma, sun spots, and dark spots with active, reliable ingredients for noticeable results. These medical experts included:

Michele Green, MD, a double-board-certified dermatologist with a New York City private practice. She treats melasma and other medical and aesthetic skin-care concerns. 

Rachel Westbay, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist who treats melasma and other skin-care concerns at Marmur Medical in New York City. She is also an instructor of cosmetic dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital.

What to Look For When Buying Skin Care for Melasma

When you're looking for the best skin-care products for melasma, our experts recommend keeping the following in mind.

  • Look for pigment-inhibiting ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, tranexamic acid, and azelaic acid.
  • Consider chemical exfoliants like retinol or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), like glycolic acid, lactic acid, kojic acid, and azelaic acid.
  • Avoid ingredients such as dyes, fragrances, and alcohols, which can be irritating. “These irritants can cause inflammation in the skin and potentially trigger melanin production, exacerbating hyperpigmentation,” says Green.
  • Depending on the severity of your melasma, sun spots, or age spots, you may want to consider using both a formula with pigment-inhibiting ingredients and a formula that can exfoliate your skin.

How Do I Know if I Have Melasma?

If you notice what Westbay describes as brown or gray brown patches of pigmented skin on your face, you might have melasma. “It’s the result of overproduction of melanin, triggered and sustained by several key factors,” says Westbay. But to correctly diagnose melasma, we recommend seeing a dermatologist. In fact, it’s important to visit a dermatologist regularly for skin checks so they can accurately diagnose skin spots. Dermatologists can recommend over-the-counter treatments that you can easily find online or in stores.

How Do Age or Sun Spots Differ From Melasma?

Melasma appears mostly on the face.

 When it comes to other spots, these can occur anywhere on the skin, according to Green. “Age spots, also known as sun spots or liver spots, are flat, brown, gray, or black spots that appear on the skin,” she explains. They’re mainly caused by exposure to UV light, or sun damage.
Westbay explains that melanin-producing cells “increase in response to this UV-induced inflammation and oxidative stress, and the pigment is transferred to surrounding cells in the epidermis. Over time, this leads to localized clusters of pigment, which is the hallmark of age spots.” But people with melasma also have brown or gray-brown patches of pigmentation. For this reason, it’s visibly hard to tell age spots and sun spots from melasma. Although UV exposure can make melasma worse, melasma is linked to hormonal changes and genetics, which is what differentiates it from sun spots and age spots.

How Do Dermatologists Treat Melasma?

A dermatologist can prescribe hydroquinone to treat melasma. This is the only well-documented topical approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for hyperpigmentation. Like many of the products on our list, it works by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme that helps with the production of melanin, Westbay explains. According to Green, it is available in strengths from 4 percent to 8 percent and can be compounded with other active ingredients such as tretinoin. She notes that “hydroquinone increases the skin’s sensitivity to the sun, and it is essential to practice proper sun protection while using it.” She adds that hydroquinone should not be used as a long-term solution, and further, “it should only be used under the care of a board-certified dermatologist, as improper use can lead to worsening of hyperpigmentation."

Just as many of the products on our list exfoliate skin to reduce the appearance of pigment, in-office treatments like peels can do that with faster results. Green recommends an in-office chemical peel, which helps to “exfoliate the skin by removing dead, pigmented skin cells and allowing healthy, bright cells to come to the surface.” For more advanced cases of melasma, cosmelan chemical peels are the “gold standard for removing pigmentation,” adds Green.

Green and Westbay note that a board-certified dermatologist can recommend other courses of action like broadband light devices, but according to Westbay, “only board-certified dermatologists with specialization in broadband light devices should determine this course of action.” Incorrect use of broadband light devices by an untrained professional can worsen melasma. “After effective laser treatment, sun spots can be eliminated from the skin. However, sun exposure after treatment can cause new sun spots or age spots to appear on the skin,” says Green.

Although in general, “lasers or light sources, while they seem powerful and like an effective choice for removing pigment, should be used with caution and expertise of the laser operator. IPL and BBL may temporarily improve melasma, but almost inevitably, the pigment can return — and sometimes worse than before,” explains Jacquelyn Dosal, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with the Dermatology House in Park City, Utah.

“Make sure your provider discusses this risk with you. Other lasers may be better suited to treat melasma, such as picosecond lasers, Q-switched lasers, or light fractional lasers like Clear and Brilliant, Moxi, or very light Fraxel. But these treatments also carry the risk of recurrence, especially with sun exposure. In general, dermatologists have found that using gentle settings with more frequent treatments leads to better outcomes than aggressive settings, possibly because of the heat the laser generates (and heat is another trigger for melasma),” Dr. Dosal explains.

FAQ

What results should I expect with over-the-counter products?
With over-the-counter serums and creams, you can expect a gradual lightening of the skin over several months. On the other hand, in-office treatments can have quicker results but might take a few sessions for the full effect. 
Yes. Over-the-counter topical products target melanin production and promote skin cell turnover to treat discoloration on the skin. They’re ideal for bridging in-office treatments, or for people with early onset of melasma, sun spots, or age spots. 
No, but ongoing management is required, depending on the severity, as well as other factors like continued exposure to the sun. Sunscreen use and treatment is mandatory to prevent recurrence. 
Women are more than 90 percent more likely to develop melasma than men. “Changes, such as those that occur in pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy can trigger flare-ups,” says Westbay.

Why Trust Everyday Health

We independently investigate and recommend products and services we believe will enrich the lives of our readers and meet their specific needs. You can trust our reviews because we do the legwork for you. Read more about why you can trust us.
Meet Our Team
See Our Editorial PolicyMeet Our Health Expert Network

Jill Di Donato

Author

Jill has over 15 years of experience writing about women's health, wellness, and beauty. She has deep knowledge of buzzy products and what makes them popular with consumers. She's tested hundreds of skin care products, tools, and medical aesthetics procedures throughout her career, and she has interviewed top dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and holistic physicians to stay on top of the latest in skin health and wellness.

Jill is the former associate editorial operations director of the beauty group at Dotdash Meredith, where she worked on brands such as Shape and Byrdie, editing health, fitness, skin care, wellness, and body care commerce content.

She's also a former sex and relationship writer, and has made national television appearances to discuss sexual wellness topics for women. In addition to anything beauty and sexual wellness, Jill specializes in writing about body neutrality and mental health.

Jill has a degree in sociology, with a focus on gender studies and she has taught sociology classes at Barnard and Columbia University.

See full bio
Jacquelyn Dosal

Jacquelyn Dosal, MD

Medical Reviewer

Jacquelyn Dosal, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist practicing at The Dermatology House in Park City, Utah. Her areas of expertise include acne, rosacea, integrative treatments of inflammatory skin diseases, as well as laser treatment of the skin and injectables.

Dr. Dosal writes cosmetic questions for the certifying exams for the American Board of Dermatology. She is also the deputy editor for the American Academy of Dermatology's podcast, Dialogues in Dermatology.

See full bio

Orlando de Guzman

Fact-Checker

Orlando de Guzman is a writer and editor with expertise in health and environmental news. He has a background in investigative and science journalism and has worked on documentary films about war and trauma, health, sanitation, and the changing climate around the world. His interest in health and medicine started after an early career as a medical and legal translator.

De Guzman is a longtime health and fitness enthusiast who is interested in nutrition, diet, and mental health. He participates in endurance sports and cross-trains in several traditions of martial arts from Southeast Asia. De Guzman is interested in how the progressively complex movements of martial arts training can improve cognition and mental well-being, especially for those with PTSD and for those approaching middle age and beyond.

De Guzman has a dual B.A. in communications and international studies from the University of Washington in Seattle. He is committed to factual storytelling and evidence-based reporting on critical choices that affect our planet.

See full bio

Alexandra Klausner

Editor

Alexandra Klausner is a freelance health writer and editor with over 10 years of journalism experience. Prior to going freelance, she worked as a reporter and editor at the New York Post for eight years covering everything from health and wellness to features and breaking news. Before that, she covered multiple beats at the Daily Mail Online for three years.

Alexandra graduated from Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs with a bachelor's degree in theater. As a New York City native, she is also a grant-winning playwright, actor, freestyle singer, catchy-hook writer, and podcaster. She loves yoga, 5 Rhythms dance meditation, and running.

See full bio
See Our Editorial PolicyMeet Our Health Expert Network
EDITORIAL SOURCES
Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.
Resources
  1. Melnick S et al. Hyperpigmentation in a middle aged woman: a common yet underdiagnosed condition. Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives. July 6, 2016.
  2. Melasma. Cleveland Clinic. July 27, 2020.
  3. Melanin. Cleveland Clinic. March 29, 2022.
  4. Schwartz C et al. Hydroquinone. StatPearls. August 22, 2023.
  5. Demessant-Flavigny AL et al. Efficacy of a 2-MNG-Containing Depigmenting Serum in the Treatment of Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. February 2025.
  6. TYR Gene (tyrosinase). National Library of Medicine.
  7. Cai J et al. The many roles of tranexamic acid: An overview of the clinical indications for TXA in medical and surgical patients. European journal of haematology. December 16, 2019.
  8. Kim B et al. The Improvement of Skin Whitening of Phenylethyl Resorcinol by Nanostructured Lipid Carriers. Nanomaterials. August 28, 2017.
  9. Cassiano DP et al. Update on Melasma—Part II: Treatment. Dermatology and Therapy. July 29, 2022.
  10. Saeedi M et al. Kojic acid applications in cosmetic and pharmaceutical preparations. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. February 2019.
  11. 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic Acid. National Library of Medicine.
  12. Callender VD et al. Effects of Topical Retinoids on Acne and Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Patients with Skin of Color: A Clinical Review and Implications for Practice. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. November 9, 2021.
  13. Correia G et al. Efficacy of topical vitamin C in melasma and photoaging: A systematic review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. May 2, 2023.
  14. Afzal N et al. Prospective randomized double‐blind comparative study of topical acetyl zingerone with tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate versus tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate alone on facial photoaging. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. July 2024.
  15. Sanadi RM et al. Vitamin C as a probable inhibitor of tyrosinase (Tyr) and tyrosinase-related protein-1 (TRP-1) in human gingiva: An analytical study. Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology. 2025.
  16. Feng X et al. Azelaic Acid: Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Applications. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology. October 22, 2024.
  17. Takino Y et al. Zinc l ‐pyrrolidone carboxylate inhibits the UVA‐induced production of matrix metalloproteinase‐1 by in vitro cultured skin fibroblasts, whereas it enhances their collagen synthesis. International Journal of Cosmetic Science. February 2012.
  18. Tang S et al. Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin. Molecules. April 10, 2018.
  19. Mukherjee PK et al. Phytochemical and therapeutic potential of cucumber. Fitoterapia. January 2013.
  20. Sharifi-Rad J et al. Turmeric and Its Major Compound Curcumin on Health: Bioactive Effects and Safety Profiles for Food, Pharmaceutical, Biotechnological and Medicinal Applications. Frontiers in Pharmacology. September 15, 2020.
  21. Basit H et al. Melasma. StatPearls. August 8, 2023.
  22. Bhattar PA et al. Exogenous Ochronosis. Indian Journal of Dermatology. November-December 2015.