Routine guide

Melasma And Pigmentation routine (AM/PM)

Medically reviewed by Dr. Charu Sharma, Head of Dermatology · CureSkin · 16 August 2026

A commonly-advised routine structure

☀️ Morning (AM)

Gentle cleanser
Targeted active, if advised
Moisturiser
Broad-spectrum sunscreen — essential in the Indian sun

🌙 Night (PM)

Cleanser
Treatment active
Moisturiser

⚠️ Go slow

Introduce one active at a time
Patch-test new products
Do not layer clashing actives

Ingredients commonly recommended for melasma and pigmentation

Tranexamic acid — Commonly advised as a topical brightening agent for melasma; noted in OTC spot correctors twice daily.
Kojic acid — Commonly listed among best anti-pigment ingredients and included in melasma spot correctors.
Niacinamide — Commonly advised to calm/soothe skin and even tone in melasma formulations.
Azelaic acid — Commonly recommended, often at higher concentrations, as a less-irritating option for sensitive skin and considered safe in pregnancy.
Hydroquinone — Commonly cited as the strongest anti-pigment ingredient (OTC up to 2%, prescription 3–10%).
Salicylic acid — Commonly advised as an exfoliating agent that works through additional pathways in melasma formulas.
Licorice root — Commonly included to brighten skin and help fade post-acne marks and melasma.
Adapalene — Commonly recommended as a higher-concentration OTC retinoid to block pigmentation and fade discoloration.
Retinol — Commonly advised (including encapsulated/gentle forms) as a retinoid option for evening tone, applied nightly.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) — Commonly listed among best brightening ingredients for pigmentation.
Arbutin — Commonly listed among best anti-pigment ingredients for reducing unwanted pigmentation.
Vitamin E — Commonly included in lightening/brightening spot treatments as part of the formula.
Tretinoin — Commonly added by dermatologists (sometimes combined with hydroquinone) in prescription anti-pigment creams.

Full Melasma And Pigmentation guide with sources → · Check your own routine for conflicts →

Commonly advised to avoid

Lemon juice (commonly advised against for pigmentation)
Citrus extracts and oils
Direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Hormonal triggers such as birth control pills where relevant
Starting retinoids without a patch test, as they can irritate certain skin types

🇮🇳 For Indian skin & climate

Melasma disproportionately affects people with darker skin tones, which is highly relevant for Indian skin. Given India's intense sun and hot climate, the sources' emphasis on strict daily sun protection, avoiding peak-hour sun exposure, and choosing less-irritating agents (like azelaic acid) is especially important for pigmentation-prone skin that is also more susceptible to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Frequently asked

What is a good routine order for melasma and pigmentation?

A common structure is cleanse → treat → moisturise → sunscreen in the morning, and cleanse → treat → moisturise at night. Introduce actives one at a time.

Is this a personalised plan?

No — it is a general structure from published guidance. A free CureSkin dermatologist assessment can tailor it to your skin, climate and history.

General educational information for Indian skin, compiled from published dermatology literature and structured ingredient data. Not medical advice or a diagnosis.