Best Melasma Treatments (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed

Melasma—those stubborn patches of dark pigmentation that often appear on the face—is one of the most challenging skincare concerns to treat. Unlike simple sun spots or post-acne marks, melasma is typically triggered by hormonal changes, making it persistent and prone to recurrence. Whether you developed melasma during pregnancy (chloasma), from birth control, hormone therapy, or sun exposure, finding effective treatment requires specialized ingredients and unwavering sun protection.

This comprehensive guide showcases the most effective melasma treatments available on Amazon in 2026, from prescription-strength alternatives to gentle daily care formulas. You’ll discover powerful ingredients like tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C—all clinically proven to target the unique mechanisms behind melasma formation. Whether you’re dealing with light patches or deep, stubborn discoloration, there’s a treatment here that can help you reclaim clearer, more even-toned skin.

Our Top Picks at a Glance

• Best Overall: Admire My Skin Dark Spot Corrector — multi-acid formula proven on 2M+ customers
• Best for Pregnancy: Abera Melasma Serum Plus — Genowhite formula for hormonal pigmentation
• Best Clinical Alternative: Tranexamic Acid Multi-Active Serum — five-ingredient powerhouse
• Best Budget: Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum — clinical ingredients, drugstore price

Quick Comparison

Product	Key Ingredients	Strength	Size	Best For
Admire My Skin Corrector	Kojic, Azelaic, Multiple Acids	Clinical	1 oz	Stubborn melasma
Abera Melasma Serum Plus	Genowhite, Niacinamide, Bee Venom	Professional	1 oz	Pregnancy spots
Tranexamic Acid Multi-Active	5 Active Ingredients	Maximum	1 oz	Resistant melasma
Good Molecules Discoloration	Tranexamic, Niacinamide	Moderate	1 oz	Budget-conscious
Suquato Dark Spot Remover	Tranexamic, Niacinamide, Vit C	High	1 oz	Comprehensive care
Cos De BAHA Tranexamic 5%	Tranexamic 5%, Niacinamide 5%	Clinical	1 oz	Daily treatment
INKEY List Azelaic Acid 10%	10% Azelaic Acid	Moderate	1 oz	Sensitive skin
QRxLabs 15% Glycolic Acid	15% Glycolic Acid	High	1 oz	Advanced treatment

1. Admire My Skin Dark Spot Corrector — Best Overall Melasma Treatment

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With over 2 million satisfied customers and extensive before-and-after documentation, this multi-acid brightening serum effectively fades even the most stubborn melasma in 4 weeks.

Admire My Skin’s Dark Spot Corrector has earned its reputation as one of the most effective over-the-counter melasma treatments available. The comprehensive formula combines kojic acid, azelaic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, and vitamin C with advanced brighteners Synovea HR and Genowhite (Acetyl Glycyl β-Alanine). This multi-mechanism approach attacks melasma from every angle: inhibiting melanin production, increasing cell turnover, reducing inflammation, and providing antioxidant protection. The brand’s extensive gallery of real customer before-and-after photos demonstrates consistent, dramatic improvements in melasma severity.

What We Like

• Multiple proven acids work synergistically for maximum effectiveness
• Over 2 million customers with documented melasma improvement
• Contains Synovea HR and Genowhite for advanced melanin inhibition
• Visible results typically seen within 4 weeks of consistent use

What Could Be Better

• Clinical-strength formula may cause initial sensitivity
• Requires patch testing before full-face application

Bottom Line: The gold standard for at-home melasma treatment, delivering clinical-level results for those committed to fading stubborn pigmentation.

2. Abera Melasma Serum Plus — Best for Pregnancy-Related Melasma

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This professional-grade serum specifically targets hormonal melasma with Genowhite, niacinamide, bee venom extract, and hyaluronic acid for gentle yet effective treatment.

Abera Melasma Serum Plus is meticulously formulated to address the unique challenge of hormonal pigmentation—the “pregnancy mask” (chloasma) that develops during pregnancy or from hormonal fluctuations. The star ingredient, Genowhite (Acetyl Glycyl Beta-Alanine), is a patented brightening peptide that effectively penetrates deep into skin to reduce melanin production. Combined with niacinamide to calm inflammation, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and bee venom extract for anti-inflammatory benefits, this serum provides comprehensive melasma care. It’s suitable for all skin tones and designed for gradual, safe brightening over 4-8 weeks.

What We Like

• Genowhite provides advanced melanin inhibition specifically for melasma
• Formulated specifically for pregnancy spots and hormonal pigmentation
• Suitable for all skin tones and types
• Hyaluronic acid prevents dryness during treatment

What Could Be Better

• Results require 4-8 weeks of consistent morning and night use
• Must be combined with diligent daily sun protection

Bottom Line: The ideal melasma treatment for those dealing with pregnancy-related or hormonal pigmentation who need professional-grade care.

3. Tranexamic Acid Multi-Active Serum — Best Clinical Alternative

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This powerful serum combines five active ingredients—tranexamic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, retinol, and arbutin—to tackle even the most resistant melasma through multiple pathways.

This Multi-Active Tranexamic Acid Serum represents maximum-strength melasma treatment available without a prescription. Each of the five active ingredients attacks pigmentation through a different mechanism: tranexamic acid specifically inhibits melanin production triggered by hormones, niacinamide reduces inflammation that can worsen melasma, vitamin C provides brightening and antioxidant protection, retinol accelerates cell turnover to fade existing pigmentation, and arbutin blocks tyrosinase enzyme activity. The synergistic effect of these complementary ingredients creates results more powerful than any single active alone.

What We Like

• Five proven actives target melasma from multiple angles
• Specifically formulated for stubborn, resistant melasma
• Lightweight formula layers easily despite potent ingredients
• Cruelty-free and suitable for morning or evening use

What Could Be Better

• Retinol inclusion requires strict SPF use and pregnancy avoidance
• Complex formula needs patch testing before full application

Bottom Line: A comprehensive, prescription-strength alternative for those with resistant melasma who haven’t found success with gentler treatments.

4. Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum — Best Budget Treatment

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This affordable serum delivers professional-grade ingredients—3% tranexamic acid and 4% niacinamide—specifically proven to target melasma at a fraction of typical treatment costs.

Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum proves that effective melasma treatment doesn’t require luxury pricing. The formula combines 3% tranexamic acid (the gold standard ingredient specifically proven to fade stubborn melasma) with 4% niacinamide to reduce the inflammation that can worsen pigmentation. The hydrating, healing formula is gentle enough for twice-daily use and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive. Users with melasma consistently report visible improvements within 4-8 weeks when combined with diligent sun protection.

What We Like

• Clinical-strength tranexamic acid specifically targets melasma
• Exceptional value for proven melasma-fighting ingredients
• Hydrating formula prevents treatment-related dryness
• Gentle enough for sensitive skin prone to melasma

What Could Be Better

• Results require consistent 4-8 week commitment minimum
• Basic packaging without pump dispenser

Bottom Line: An outstanding value melasma treatment that delivers clinical-level results at a drugstore-friendly price point.

5. Suquato Dark Spot Remover Serum — Best Comprehensive Treatment

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This triple-action brightening serum combines tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C to attack melasma from multiple angles while providing intensive hydration.

Suquato’s Dark Spot Remover takes a comprehensive approach to melasma by combining three of dermatology’s most effective melanin-inhibiting ingredients. Tranexamic acid specifically targets hormonal melasma, niacinamide calms the inflammation that can worsen pigmentation, and vitamin C provides both brightening benefits and antioxidant protection against UV-triggered darkening. The serum doubles as an intensive moisturizer, preventing the dryness that can come with active ingredient use. The dermatologist-tested, paraben-free formula works perfectly under sunscreen for comprehensive daytime melasma care.

What We Like

• Triple-action formula for comprehensive melasma treatment
• Intensive hydration prevents dryness and irritation
• Dermatologist-tested and cruelty-free
• Layers beautifully under sunscreen without pilling

What Could Be Better

• Richer texture may be too heavy for very oily skin
• Multiple actives may require gradual introduction

Bottom Line: A sophisticated multi-active melasma treatment that addresses pigmentation through complementary brightening mechanisms.

6. Cos De BAHA Tranexamic Acid 5% Serum — Best Daily Treatment

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This balanced serum delivers clinical 5% concentrations of both tranexamic acid and niacinamide, enhanced with hyaluronic acid and soothing botanicals for gentle daily melasma care.

Cos De BAHA’s Tranexamic Acid 5% Serum offers clinical-strength melasma treatment in a formula designed for daily, long-term use. The dual 5%+5% concentration ensures maximum effectiveness from both tranexamic acid (specifically proven for melasma) and niacinamide (which reduces inflammation that worsens pigmentation). Hyaluronic acid and aloe provide gentle hydration, while botanical extracts including camellia, elderflower, bitter melon, and edelweiss deliver plant-based skin benefits. The fast-absorbing, non-sticky texture makes it suitable for both morning and evening application without interfering with other skincare products.

What We Like

• Clinical 5%+5% dual-active concentration for melasma
• Hyaluronic acid and aloe prevent treatment-related dryness
• Botanical extracts support overall skin health
• Fast-absorbing formula suitable for twice-daily use

What Could Be Better

• Higher concentrations may need gradual introduction
• Results take several weeks of consistent use to appear

Bottom Line: A well-balanced daily melasma treatment that combines clinical strength with gentle, hydrating care for long-term use.

7. The INKEY List Azelaic Acid 10% Serum — Best for Sensitive Melasma-Prone Skin

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This gentle yet effective serum uses 10% azelaic acid to reduce melasma and redness while being suitable for even the most sensitive skin types.

The INKEY List’s Azelaic Acid 10% Serum offers a gentler approach to melasma treatment that’s perfect for sensitive or reactive skin. Azelaic acid is a pregnancy-safe alternative to hydroquinone that works through multiple mechanisms: inhibiting tyrosinase enzyme to reduce melanin production, providing gentle exfoliation to fade existing pigmentation, and reducing inflammation that can worsen melasma. The 10% concentration is clinically effective yet unlikely to cause the irritation that stronger acids can trigger. The fast-absorbing formula layers beautifully under moisturizer and sunscreen.

What We Like

• 10% azelaic acid is effective yet gentle for sensitive skin
• Pregnancy-safe alternative to hydroquinone
• Reduces both pigmentation and inflammation
• Fast-absorbing formula doesn’t pill under other products

What Could Be Better

• Gentler approach means slower results than stronger treatments
• May cause slight tingling sensation initially

Bottom Line: The ideal melasma treatment for those with sensitive or reactive skin who need effective results without harsh irritation.

8. QRxLabs 15% Glycolic Acid Face Serum — Best Advanced Treatment

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This professional-strength glycolic acid serum accelerates melasma fading through powerful exfoliation and cell turnover comparable to clinical treatments.

QRxLabs’ 15% Glycolic Acid Face Serum represents advanced at-home melasma treatment for those who’ve built tolerance to gentler ingredients. The high-concentration glycolic acid works through chemical exfoliation to accelerate the fading of melasma patches while smoothing overall skin texture. By increasing cell turnover, it helps shed pigmented cells faster while preventing new melanin from accumulating. Despite its professional strength, the formula includes soothing ingredients that minimize irritation. This serum is particularly effective when melasma has responded partially to other treatments and needs an additional boost.

What We Like

• Professional 15% glycolic acid concentration
• Accelerates melasma fading through enhanced cell turnover
• Improves overall texture while treating pigmentation
• Affordable alternative to clinical peels

What Could Be Better

• High concentration requires gradual introduction and built tolerance
• Absolutely requires strict daily SPF 30+ use

Bottom Line: An advanced melasma treatment for those who’ve mastered gentler ingredients and need professional-strength exfoliation.

How to Choose the Best Melasma Treatment

Understanding your melasma triggers is crucial for selecting effective treatment. Hormonal melasma (from pregnancy, birth control, or hormone therapy) responds best to ingredients like tranexamic acid and azelaic acid that specifically target hormone-induced pigmentation. Sun-triggered melasma benefits from vitamin C and niacinamide that provide antioxidant protection while brightening. Mixed-type melasma, the most common form, typically requires multi-ingredient formulas that address both hormonal and environmental triggers. Identifying your primary trigger helps you choose treatments that target your specific melanin production pathway.

Consider your skin tone carefully when selecting melasma treatments. Darker skin tones should avoid hydroquinone, which can cause paradoxical darkening (ochronosis). Safer alternatives include tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C. Additionally, darker skin is more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, so choose gentle formulas that won’t irritate and potentially create new dark spots. Always patch test new treatments and introduce them gradually, especially if you have skin of color.

Evaluate your current pregnancy or breastfeeding status before selecting treatments. Avoid retinoids, hydroquinone, and high-strength chemical exfoliants during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Generally safer options include vitamin C, moderate-concentration niacinamide (up to 5%), and azelaic acid, though you should still consult your healthcare provider. Pregnancy melasma (chloasma) often fades naturally within a year postpartum, so aggressive treatment during pregnancy may not be necessary—focus on prevention with diligent sun protection instead.

Think about long-term commitment versus quick results. Melasma is notoriously stubborn and prone to recurrence, often requiring ongoing maintenance treatment. Choose products you can afford to use consistently for months or even years. Gentler ingredients like niacinamide and low-concentration azelaic acid can be used indefinitely for maintenance, while stronger treatments like high-concentration glycolic acid or multi-acid formulas might be used intensively for 3-6 months before transitioning to maintenance care.

Remember that no melasma treatment will work without religious sun protection. UV exposure is the #1 trigger for melasma worsening and recurrence. You need daily SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen, reapplied every 2 hours when outdoors, plus physical protection like wide-brimmed hats and sun-protective clothing. Some dermatologists recommend tinted mineral sunscreens for melasma, as visible light can also trigger pigmentation. Think of sun protection as your primary melasma treatment, with topical ingredients as supporting players—not the other way around.

Benefits of Melasma Treatments

Specialized melasma treatments work through targeted mechanisms that address the unique hormonal and inflammatory components of melasma pigmentation. Unlike general dark spot treatments, melasma-specific formulas include ingredients like tranexamic acid that inhibit plasmin and other inflammatory mediators that worsen hormonally-triggered pigmentation. They also typically combine multiple melanin-blocking ingredients that work through different pathways, creating synergistic effects more powerful than single-ingredient approaches. This targeted, multi-mechanism action is essential because melasma is more complex and resistant than simple sun spots.

Effective melasma treatments provide long-term pigmentation control rather than just temporary fading. While makeup can cover melasma, it doesn’t address the underlying melanin overproduction. Quality treatments actually reduce melanin synthesis at the cellular level, gradually lightening patches and preventing new pigmentation from forming. With consistent use and proper sun protection, many people achieve significant melasma fading that persists with maintenance treatment. This creates real, lasting improvement in skin appearance rather than daily concealment.

Modern melasma treatments offer safe, effective alternatives to prescription hydroquinone. Hydroquinone, while effective, carries risks of ochronosis (paradoxical darkening) especially in darker skin tones, rebound hyperpigmentation when stopped, and potential long-term safety concerns. Ingredients like tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, kojic acid, and niacinamide provide comparable effectiveness without these risks, making them suitable for long-term use. These alternatives are particularly important for people of color and those who need ongoing melasma maintenance.

Comprehensive melasma treatments often provide additional skin benefits beyond pigmentation control. Ingredients like niacinamide strengthen the skin barrier and reduce sensitivity, vitamin C provides antioxidant protection and brightening, and azelaic acid helps control acne and rosacea that can coexist with melasma. This means you’re not just treating dark patches—you’re improving your overall skin health, resilience, and appearance. Many people find their skin looks and feels better overall when using quality melasma treatments consistently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for melasma treatments to work?

Melasma typically requires longer treatment than simple dark spots due to its depth and hormonal triggers. Expect initial lightening within 6-8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use, with significant improvement appearing after 12-16 weeks. Very stubborn melasma may take 6-12 months of continuous treatment to achieve maximum fading. Results depend heavily on your commitment to daily SPF 50+ reapplication, as any UV exposure can trigger re-darkening. Hormonal melasma often requires ongoing maintenance treatment to prevent recurrence even after fading.

Can melasma be cured permanently?

Unfortunately, melasma cannot be “cured” in the traditional sense—it’s a chronic condition that can be controlled but not eliminated permanently. While treatments can fade melasma significantly, it’s prone to recurrence when triggers like sun exposure, hormonal changes, or heat exposure return. Most people with melasma need ongoing maintenance treatment and strict sun protection for life. Think of melasma like a chronic condition (similar to rosacea or acne) that requires management rather than expecting a one-time cure.

Why does my melasma keep coming back?

Melasma recurs because the underlying triggers—hormones, UV exposure, heat, and inflammation—continue to stimulate melanin production. Even after successful fading, your melanocytes remain “primed” to overproduce pigment when exposed to these triggers. Common culprits for recurrence include inadequate sun protection (not wearing SPF 50+ daily or not reapplying), hormonal changes (pregnancy, birth control, hormone therapy), heat exposure (hot yoga, saunas), and using irritating skincare that causes inflammation. Preventing recurrence requires addressing all triggers simultaneously.

Should I avoid the sun completely if I have melasma?

While complete sun avoidance isn’t realistic for most people, you need aggressive sun protection far beyond typical sunscreen use. This means: SPF 50+ broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) applied generously and reapplied every 2 hours when outdoors; wide-brimmed hats and sun-protective clothing; seeking shade whenever possible; and avoiding peak sun hours (10am-4pm). Some dermatologists also recommend tinted sunscreens, as visible light can trigger melasma darkening. Even with treatments, inadequate sun protection will cause melasma to worsen or recur.

Can I treat melasma while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Treatment options are limited during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid retinoids, hydroquinone, high-strength acids, and most prescription treatments. Generally considered safer options include vitamin C, moderate niacinamide (up to 5%), and azelaic acid, but always consult your healthcare provider before using any treatment. The good news: pregnancy melasma (chloasma) often fades significantly on its own within 6-12 months postpartum as hormones normalize. Focus on prevention with aggressive sun protection rather than treatment during pregnancy, then pursue active treatment afterward if needed.

Is laser treatment better than topical treatments for melasma?

Laser treatment is actually risky for melasma and should be approached with extreme caution. Many lasers can worsen melasma, especially in darker skin tones, causing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or paradoxical darkening. Some newer, gentler lasers (like low-fluence Q-switched lasers) show promise when combined with topical treatments, but they’re expensive and results are inconsistent. Most dermatologists recommend starting with topical treatments and strict sun protection before considering laser options. If laser is pursued, it must be performed by an experienced provider familiar with melasma in your skin tone.

What’s the difference between melasma and other dark spots?

Melasma appears as larger, symmetrical patches (often on cheeks, forehead, upper lip, chin) triggered primarily by hormones and worsened by sun exposure. It’s deeper in the skin and more resistant to treatment than surface dark spots. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) results from injury or inflammation (like acne) and appears as individual spots. Sun spots (solar lentigines) are distinct, isolated dark areas from UV damage. Melasma requires more aggressive, long-term treatment and is more prone to recurrence. If you’re unsure what type of hyperpigmentation you have, consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis.

Can diet or supplements help with melasma?

While diet alone won’t cure melasma, certain nutrients may support treatment efforts. Oral tranexamic acid (prescription) has shown effectiveness for melasma when combined with topical treatments. Antioxidant supplements like vitamin C, vitamin E, and polyphenols (from green tea, grape seed extract) may provide some protection against UV-triggered pigmentation, though evidence is limited. A diet rich in antioxidants (berries, leafy greens, nuts) supports overall skin health. However, supplements should complement—not replace—topical treatments and strict sun protection. Always consult your doctor before starting oral supplements for melasma, especially prescription tranexamic acid.

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