Melasma is a common skin condition among Filipinos, especially women exposed to frequent sun and heat. It causes dark, uneven patches on the face, often appearing on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. This skin discoloration can be frustrating, but thankfully, many dermatologist-approved treatments are available in the Philippines—both over-the-counter and prescription.
Whether you’re just noticing sun spots or have been battling melasma for years, this guide breaks down the best treatment options, how they work, and where to buy authentic skincare products in the Philippines.
🧴 What Is Melasma and What Causes It?
Melasma appears as brown or grayish patches and is usually triggered by:
- Sun exposure ☀️
- Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, birth control pills)
- Genetics
- Heat and light exposure
- Use of irritating skincare products
📚 WHO on Skin Conditions and Sun Exposure
📖 NIH Guide to Melasma
💊 Top 5 Treatments for Melasma That Work in the Philippines
1. Hydroquinone 4% Cream
Hydroquinone is the gold standard for melasma. It works by inhibiting melanin production, fading dark patches over weeks of regular use.
🛒 Buy Melalite Forte Cream – Palmer Wellness Hub
🌐 shop.tretino.com – Trusted Source for Hydroquinone
📘 PubMed on Hydroquinone Efficacy
2. Tretinoin (Retinoic Acid)
Tretinoin (like A-Ret Gel) helps boost cell turnover, exfoliate the skin, and allow other ingredients like hydroquinone to work better.
🛒 Buy A-Ret Gel – Palmer Wellness Hub
🌐 shop.tretino.com – Tretinoin Products
🔗 NIH: Tretinoin for Hyperpigmentation
3. Azelaic Acid
Great for sensitive skin, azelaic acid brightens skin and reduces melanin. It’s suitable for pregnant women or those sensitive to hydroquinone.
🛒 Ezanic 20% Cream – Palmer Wellness Hub
🔗 PubMed: Azelaic Acid for Melasma
4. Kojic Acid
A popular natural option in Filipino skincare routines. Kojic acid lightens dark spots but may be less effective than hydroquinone.
📖 Kojic Acid in Skin Lightening – NIH
5. Combination Therapy (Hydroquinone + Tretinoin + Corticosteroids)
Also known as the “triple combination cream”, this is one of the most effective dermatologist-prescribed treatments for moderate-to-severe melasma.
🔄 How Long Until You See Results?
- 4–6 weeks for noticeable fading
- Consistent use is key—skipping days may delay results
- Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily
🧴 Shop Skin Treatments – Palmer Wellness Hub
📞 Need help choosing? Contact Us
☀️ Why Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable
Melasma is highly UV-sensitive. Even the best treatment will fail without sun protection. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily—even indoors.
📘 WHO: UV Radiation and Skin Health
✅ Safe Melasma Skincare Routine
- Morning:
- Gentle cleanser
- Hydroquinone or azelaic acid
- Sunscreen SPF 50
- Night:
- Cleanser
- Tretinoin or triple combination cream
- Moisturizer
⚠️ Tip: Do not use hydroquinone long-term (more than 3–6 months) without medical supervision.
📦 Where to Buy Authentic Melasma Products in the Philippines
- 🛒 Palmer Wellness Hub – Trusted Philippine Pharmacy
- 🌐 shop.tretino.com – Global Skin Solutions
- 🧴 View All Skin Treatments
- 📚 Read More on Skin Health – Palmer Blog
❓ FAQs (FAQ Schema Format)
Q1: Is hydroquinone safe for Filipino skin?
A1: Yes, when used under guidance and combined with sunscreen. Avoid long-term use without breaks.
Q2: Can I use tretinoin and hydroquinone together?
A2: Yes, they work well together to fade melasma faster. This combo is often prescribed by dermatologists.
Q3: How long should I use melasma treatments?
A3: Typically 8–12 weeks. After melasma fades, shift to maintenance using sunscreen and gentle brighteners.
Q4: Are there melasma treatments for pregnant women?
A4: Yes, azelaic acid is considered safe during pregnancy. Avoid hydroquinone unless prescribed.
Q5: Where can I buy authentic tretinoin or hydroquinone?
A5: You can buy from Palmer Wellness Hub or shop.tretino.com.
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