Description

About Melalite Forte (Hydroquinone 4% Cream)

 

Melalite Forte is a topical prescription medication containing Hydroquinone (4%). It is a skin-lightening (or depigmenting) agent used for the short-term treatment of dark patches on the skin.

 

How It Works

 

Melalite Forte works by disrupting the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its dark color.

It does this by inhibiting (blocking) the activity of tyrosinase, which is the primary enzyme your body needs to create melanin. By slowing down melanin production, the dark patches gradually fade, leading to a more even skin tone.

What “Reversible Depigmentation” Means: This means the lightening effect is not permanent. The cream only slows down the production of new pigment. As soon as you stop using the cream and expose your skin to sunlight, your skin’s pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) will become active again, and the dark patches can return.

 

Primary Use & Benefit

 

• Treatment of Melasma: This cream is designed to lighten the dark, discolored patches (hyperpigmentation) on the skin. These patches are often caused by:
  • Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, birth control pills, menopause)
  • Sun exposure
  • Skin injury (such as dark spots left by acne)

 

How to Use This Medicine

 

This medicine is for external use only. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.

1. Do a Patch Test First: Before using the cream on your face, apply a very small amount to an unbroken patch of skin (like behind your ear or on your inner arm). Check the area for 24 hours. If you experience severe itching, blistering, or swelling, do not use the product and contact your doctor. Mild redness is usually normal.
2. Preparation: Gently wash your face with a mild, non-medicated cleanser and gently pat your skin dry.
3. Application: Apply a small, thin layer of the cream only to the affected dark patches.
4. Avoid: Do not apply it to unaffected (normal) skin, as this can cause unwanted lightening. Be very careful to avoid the sensitive areas around your eyes, the corners of your mouth, and the creases of your nose.
5. Frequency: It is typically applied once or twice daily (morning and night), or as directed by your doctor.
6. Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly after applying the cream to prevent lightening the skin on your fingertips.

 

⚠️ Important Precautions & Warnings

 

CRITICAL: Sun Exposure & Long-Term Use Warnings

1. Extreme Sun Sensitivity: This is the most important precaution. Hydroquinone makes your skin extremely sensitive to sunlight.
   • You must use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every single day, even if it is cloudy or you are indoors.
   • Sun exposure will make your melasma worse and completely reverse the effects of the cream, causing the pigment to return.
   • Wear protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat, when outdoors.
2. Risk of Ochronosis: Do not use this cream for long periods (e.g., not for more than 4-5 months at a time) unless directed by your doctor. Long-term, continuous use can lead to a rare but permanent skin condition called exogenous ochronosis, which causes a blue-black darkening of the skin that is very difficult to treat.

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• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Do not use this cream if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, unless specifically advised by your doctor. A significant amount can be absorbed into the skin.
• Avoid Irritation: Do not apply to broken, cut, sunburned, or eczematous (inflamed) skin.
• Other Products: Do not use this cream at the same time as products containing benzoyl peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. This combination can cause a temporary dark staining of the skin.
• Stop if No Improvement: If you see no improvement after 2 months of use, stop the cream and consult your doctor.

 

Common Side Effects

 

It is common to experience some mild side effects as your skin adjusts.

• Mild stinging or burning sensation
• Redness
• Dryness and peeling
• Itching

Stop using the cream and contact your doctor if you experience severe blistering, skin cracking, or any blue-black darkening of the skin.