10 Best Melasma Creams and Treatments in the Philippines 2025 l Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Are unsightly dark spots and uneven skin tone making you feel self-conscious about your complexion? If so, you're not alone! Melasma or 'pekas', is a common skin condition characterized by hyperpigmentation, and it affects millions of people worldwide. But don't let this condition hold you back from achieving a flawless complexion!
To navigate through this skincare concern, our comprehensive buying guide incorporates expert insights from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz. Discover effective melasma treatments as we unveil the best melasma creams and products available on Lazada and Shopee.
Quick List - Top Melasma Creams
FRESH Skinlab
Get Smoother Complexion With TheraCool Complex
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- Identifying Melasma Type Ensures Effective Cream Choice
- Why You Can Trust Us
- Overview of Our Top Picks
- 10 Best Melasma Creams to Buy Online
- No. 1Belo | Intensive Whitening Face & Neck Cream
- No. 2Good Molecules | Gentle Retinol Cream
- No. 3Cetaphil | Brightening Night Comfort Cream
- No. 4FRESH Skinlab | Jeju Aloe Ice 3 in 1 Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum Cream
- No. 5Olay | Retinol 24 Anti Aging Face Cream Skincare
- 5 more products
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Katrina Luz
- How to Get Rid of Melasma on Face Fast?
- How Long Should a User Wait to See Results Before Trying a Different Strength or Formula
- How to Prevent Melasma on Face?
- Put Your Best Face Forward With These Skincare Products
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Identifying Melasma Type Ensures Effective Cream Choice
Note that different melasma types may require tailored treatments and creams work best on surface layers.
Epidermal melasma appears light to dark brown, and it affects the epidermis or the upper layer of the skin. Since it primarily affects the upper skin layer, topical treatments, such as creams and serums, can be more effective.
On the other hand, if you have brown to bluish patches, this may indicate dermal melasma, which penetrates the deeper skin layer or dermis. Topical treatments alone are proven less effective, so dermatological procedures like lasers or chemical peels may be considered.
While melasma creams are designed to address common causes of pigmentation, individual responses may vary. If you have been using a product consistently for an extended period without experiencing the desired effects, we strongly recommend consulting with a dermatologist for personalized advice and further evaluation of your skin concerns.
Melasma is a pathologic condition. Although challenging, it's not impossible to treat. If a product isn't working, it's possible that switching to another might be more effective and/or considering multimodal therapy including procedures such as chemical peels or lasers.
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Overview of Our Top Picks
Get Smoother Complexion With TheraCool Complex
Targets Hyperpigmentation for a Brighter Look in 14 Days
Achieve Radiant Skin With Madewhite™ Micro-Beads
Combines TA Stem Cell and Placenta for Brighter, Even-Toned Skin
How to Choose a Melasma Cream or Treatment - Buying Guide
Our expert guide navigates through cream recommendations, tailored treatments, and essential insights that will help you choose the best melasma cream. Scroll down to learn more!
Fair Warning: Avoid Getting OTC Creams With Hydroquinone and Tretinoin
There are some OTC creams with hydroquinone and/or tretinoin as the key ingredient. Although these are two gold-standard ingredients that have been proven to treat hyperpigmentation effectively, we must warn that these are best prescribed to you by a board-certified dermatologist because of their potency and potential side effects.
They may not be suitable for everyone, including pregnant and nursing women and those with sensitive skin. Potential side effects of hydroquinone and tretinoin include skin irritation, dryness, peeling, redness, and, in extreme cases, ochronosis, a condition characterized by bluish-black pigmentation and worsening skin condition.
Prefer Products With Dermatologist-Approved Ingredients
Creams don't necessarily require an extensive list of ingredients; sometimes, one effective ingredient is enough to bring out results.
Gently and Effectively Target Existing Melasma Patches With Ingredients Like Arbutin, Bearberry, Niacinamide, and Retinoids
Arbutin, bearberry, niacinamide, and retinoids fight melasma by inhibiting melanin and promoting cell turnover for brighter skin.
To effectively target existing melasma patches, melasma creams often contain a combination of potent ingredients. Here are some of the best ingredients that can address hyperpigmentation:
Arbutin - derived from the bearberry plant, inhibits melanin production, providing a natural alternative to hydroquinone.
Bearberry extract - with compounds that hinder melanin formation, contributes to the gradual fading of melasma patches.
Niacinamide, or vitamin B3 - regulates melanin production and possesses anti-inflammatory properties, making it suitable for various skin types.
Retinoids - play a crucial role in promoting cell turnover, aiding in the exfoliation of the skin, and facilitating the fading of existing melasma patches.
Typically, ingredients such as niacinamide tend to be more attuned to those with sensitive skin. However, there is no way to predict that no one will develop a reaction, so patch-testing must be done.
Prevent Formation of New Melasma With Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Retinoids, and Exfoliating Acids
One way to approach hyperpigmentation such as melasma is through prevention with antioxidants and targeting the surface layer of the skin.
Vitamin C - not only inhibits melanin production but also provides antioxidant benefits, protecting the skin from oxidative stress.
Niacinamide - a versatile ingredient, contributes to the prevention of new melasma while being well-tolerated for daily use.
Retinoids - continue to be a key player in preventing future pigmentation issues by promoting skin renewal and turnover.
Exfoliating acids - including alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like glycolic acid and salicylic acid, play a crucial role in skin exfoliation, minimizing the likelihood of new melasma spots.
For melasma creams with preventive effects, application to the whole face is best! Remember that you want to treat the existing hyperpigmentation and prevent new ones from forming.
Address Melasma, Fine Lines, and Wrinkles With Retinoids and Exfoliating Acids
Retinoids and exfoliating acids have skin-brightening and collagen-stimulating properties that are helpful for targeting melasma and fine lines.
Retinoids - integral in combating signs of aging by promoting collagen production and improving skin texture. These ingredients work synergistically to target fine lines and wrinkles while simultaneously addressing melasma.
Exfoliating acids - AHAs and BHAs further enhance the skin's texture, contributing to a smoother and more even complexion.
Check the Consistency: Opt for a Thicker Formula for Dry Skin
Creams are generally richer and more emollient, so they're a good choice for those with dry skin or those seeking a boost of hydration.
When managing melasma, tailoring your skincare to your skin type is crucial. With their hydrating properties, creams and thicker serums are best for dry skin as they can create a protective barrier against dryness, promoting a smoother application and aiding in melasma treatment.
Meanwhile, if you have oily or combination skin, opt for products with a lightweight texture. Gel-based or water-based formulations are ideal, providing effective treatment for melasma without intensifying oiliness.
Creams and Serums With SPF Can Be a Great Add-On
To avoid prevent the formation of melasma, sun protection is essential.
Although not a must-have ingredient, having SPF in your melasma cream for AM use is a great add-on. A standalone sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is crucial, and strict reapplication throughout the day is essential.
The key to addressing melasma is combining your treatment with protection from a reliable sunscreenーbest if it's a physical or mineral sunscreen! Remember that even the most expensive topicals won't be effective without sufficient sun protection.
Other ways to prevent melasma would include other sun protective measures such as wearing a wide-brimmed hat as well as avoiding the sun during peak hours, such as between 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
10 Best Melasma Creams to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Key Ingredients for Melasma Treatment | Formulation | Skin Type | SPF | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Belo Intensive Whitening Face & Neck Cream | | Expertly Formulated Cream for Brighter, Even Skin | Niacinamide、Tranexamic Acid、Kojic Acid | Cream | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Mature Skin、Normal Skin | 50g x 2 | ||
2 | Good Molecules Gentle Retinol Cream | | An Ultra-Gentle Retinol Cream Suited for Beginners | Retinol、Bakuchiol、Vitamin E | Cream | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Mature Skin、Normal Skin | 30mL | ||
3 | Cetaphil Brightening Night Comfort Cream | | Brighten Your Skin Without Damaging Its Barrier | Niacinamide、Sea Daffofil Extract | Cream | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin、Mature Skin | 50g | ||
4 | FRESH Skinlab Jeju Aloe Ice 3 in 1 Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum Cream | | Get Smoother Complexion With TheraCool Complex | Niacinamide、Vitamin E | Serum-Cream | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Mature Skin、Normal Skin | 10mL | ||
5 | Olay Retinol 24 Anti Aging Face Cream Skincare | | A Retinol-Infused Night Cream to Revitalize Your Skin | Retinol、Niacinamide | Cream | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Mature Skin、Normal Skin、Acne-Prone Skin | 50g | ||
6 | SKINTIFIC MSH Niacinamide Brightening Moisture Gel | | Targets Hyperpigmentation for a Brighter Look in 14 Days | Alpha Arbutin、MSH Niacinamide、Tranexamic Acid | Cream | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Mature Skin、Normal Skin | 30g | ||
7 | SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Cream | | Achieve Radiant Skin With Madewhite™ Micro-Beads | Niacinamide、Tranexamic Acid、Bisabobol | Cream | Dry Skin、Combination Skin、Normal Skin、Sensitive Skin | 75mL | ||
8 | L'Oreal Paris Glycolic Bright Glowing Night Cream | | Clinically Proven to Reduce Dark Spots and Dullness | Glycolic Acid、Vitamin E | Cream | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin、Mature Skin | 50mL | ||
9 | Relumins Advance White Premium Brightening Cream | | Combines TA Stem Cell and Placenta for Brighter, Even-Toned Skin | TA Stem Cell、Placental Proteins、Alpha Arbutin | Cream | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Normal Skin、Combination Skin | 50g | ||
10 | Dermorepubliq Skin Illuminist Arbutin Cream | | Fades Discoloration With Alpha Arbutin's Brightening Power | Niacinamide、Alpha Arbutin、Licorice Root Extract | Cream | Dry Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Normal Skin、Acne-Prone Skin | 50mL | ||
Expertly Formulated Cream for Brighter, Even Skin
Founded by Dr. Vicki Belo, a well-known dermatologist, this brand offers a trusted solution for melasma. Its face and neck cream lightens pigmented skin with kojic and tranexamic acids. Kojic acid exfoliates damaged skin, while tranexamic acid helps reduce melanin production.
It also contains niacinamide, shea butter, and bee venom, which brighten the complexion, moisturize the skin, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Best of all, it has SPF30 for up to five hours of sun protection! Users love its non-greasy texture and long-lasting results.
| Key Ingredients for Melasma Treatment | Niacinamide、Tranexamic Acid、Kojic Acid |
|---|---|
| Formulation | Cream |
| Skin Type | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Mature Skin、Normal Skin |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 50g x 2 |
Good MoleculesGentle Retinol Cream
An Ultra-Gentle Retinol Cream Suited for Beginners
This ultra-gentle cream is perfect for first-time retinol users or those with sensitive skin. With a low 0.1% retinol and 0.3% bakuchiol concentration, it targets fine lines and wrinkles without being harsh. Its pH of 6 also helps protect the skin’s barrier, preventing dryness and irritation.
Nourishing ingredients like glycerin, grape seed oil, and vitamin E hydrate, while allantoin and green tea extract soothe and protect. Many say their skin looks brighter and feels smoother without redness or stinging. Plus, it's vegan, cruelty-free, and fragrance-free—great for all skin types!
| Key Ingredients for Melasma Treatment | Retinol、Bakuchiol、Vitamin E |
|---|---|
| Formulation | Cream |
| Skin Type | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Mature Skin、Normal Skin |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 30mL |
CetaphilBrightening Night Comfort Cream
Brighten Your Skin Without Damaging Its Barrier
If you have sensitive skin, Cetaphil's Brightening Night Comfort Cream is a gentle way to brighten and even out your skin tone. It contains niacinamide and sea daffodil extract to help fade dark spots. Plus, it hydrates overnight, so you wake up with soft, refreshed skin.
This cream even strengthens the skin barrier to prevent dryness and irritation. It’s also fragrance- and alcohol-free, making it gentle on all skin types. Reviews praise its non-greasy feel and visible brightening effects, giving users a radiant complexion in just four weeks!
| Key Ingredients for Melasma Treatment | Niacinamide、Sea Daffofil Extract |
|---|---|
| Formulation | Cream |
| Skin Type | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin、Mature Skin |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 50g |
FRESH Skinlab Jeju Aloe Ice 3 in 1 Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum Cream
Get Smoother Complexion With TheraCool Complex
On top of that, it keeps your skin hydrated for 12 hours while shielding it from blue light and pollution. Vitamins B5, B6, and E work alongside niacinamide to nourish and rejuvenate, giving you a clearer, more even skin tone. Buyers praise how it easily fits into their routine, making their skin feel healthier and more luminous.
| Key Ingredients for Melasma Treatment | Niacinamide、Vitamin E |
|---|---|
| Formulation | Serum-Cream |
| Skin Type | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Mature Skin、Normal Skin |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 10mL |
A Retinol-Infused Night Cream to Revitalize Your Skin
Wake up to softer, smoother skin with Olay Regenerist Retinol 24-Night Moisturizer! This blend of niacinamide and retinol hydrates and improves skin texture overnight. With regular use, fine lines appear reduced, and skin looks more refreshed in the morning.
Additionally, the gentle formula is free from fragrance, phthalates, mineral oils, and synthetic dyes to help minimize irritation. It also delivers 24-hour hydration without feeling heavy or greasy. Customers appreciate its lightweight texture and moisturizing effect.
| Key Ingredients for Melasma Treatment | Retinol、Niacinamide |
|---|---|
| Formulation | Cream |
| Skin Type | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Mature Skin、Normal Skin、Acne-Prone Skin |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 50g |
Targets Hyperpigmentation for a Brighter Look in 14 Days
Centella asiatica and 5X Ceramide also help calm irritation and strengthen the skin barrier for a healthier complexion. Its lightweight, fast-absorbing texture keeps skin hydrated while controlling oil for up to 24 hours. Buyers love its gentle yet effective formula, making it easy to add to any routine.
| Key Ingredients for Melasma Treatment | Alpha Arbutin、MSH Niacinamide、Tranexamic Acid |
|---|---|
| Formulation | Cream |
| Skin Type | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Mature Skin、Normal Skin |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 30g |
SKIN1004Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Cream
Achieve Radiant Skin With Madewhite™ Micro-Beads
Beyond brightening, it also soothes and strengthens the skin with alpha-bisabolol, making it ideal for sensitive skin. The oil-in-water gel technology provides lasting hydration, keeping skin refreshed. Plus, its soft, non-sticky finish blends well with other products, which many users appreciate.
| Key Ingredients for Melasma Treatment | Niacinamide、Tranexamic Acid、Bisabobol |
|---|---|
| Formulation | Cream |
| Skin Type | Dry Skin、Combination Skin、Normal Skin、Sensitive Skin |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 75mL |
Clinically Proven to Reduce Dark Spots and Dullness
Dermatologist-tested and formulated for Asian skin tones, it targets dark spots, uneven tone, and dullness. Its ingredients work together to enhance the skin’s natural glow overnight. Users appreciate how it smooths texture and refreshes the complexion over time.
| Key Ingredients for Melasma Treatment | Glycolic Acid、Vitamin E |
|---|---|
| Formulation | Cream |
| Skin Type | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin、Mature Skin |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 50mL |
Combines TA Stem Cell and Placenta for Brighter, Even-Toned Skin
Its light gel-cream formulation provides deep hydration, keeping skin soft and supple throughout the day. It also has SPF 30, offering broad-spectrum protection against harmful UV rays and preventing further discoloration. With regular use, customers notice visibly firmer, smoother, and more radiant skin.
| Key Ingredients for Melasma Treatment | TA Stem Cell、Placental Proteins、Alpha Arbutin |
|---|---|
| Formulation | Cream |
| Skin Type | Dry Skin、Oily Skin、Normal Skin、Combination Skin |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 50g |
Fades Discoloration With Alpha Arbutin's Brightening Power
Additionally, it includes niacinamide to regulate excess oil, while licorice root extract calms and soothes. Aloe vera and cucumber extract also provide deep hydration, keeping skin soft and refreshed. Many users love its lightweight feel and high-quality ingredients.
| Key Ingredients for Melasma Treatment | Niacinamide、Alpha Arbutin、Licorice Root Extract |
|---|---|
| Formulation | Cream |
| Skin Type | Dry Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin、Normal Skin、Acne-Prone Skin |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 50mL |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Katrina Luz
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Katrina.
How to Get Rid of Melasma on Face Fast?
How Long Should a User Wait to See Results Before Trying a Different Strength or Formula
#AskYourDerma Tip: Take a baseline photo before starting any medication. This allows objective comparison from baseline as you go along your treatment. This will make it easier to determine if stepping up or changing an ingredient altogether should be considered.
How to Prevent Melasma on Face?
Put Your Best Face Forward With These Skincare Products
Taking care of your skin is always a good investment. You will have more confidence to face the world if you have clean and healthy-looking skin! Find out what other products you can add to your skincare regimen from these links below!
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more
Top 5 Melasma Creams
No. 1: Belo｜Intensive Whitening Face & Neck Cream
No. 2: Good Molecules｜Gentle Retinol Cream
No. 3: Cetaphil｜Brightening Night Comfort Cream
No. 4: FRESH Skinlab ｜Jeju Aloe Ice 3 in 1 Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum Cream
No. 5: Olay｜Retinol 24 Anti Aging Face Cream Skincare
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Most ViewedFeatured Rankings Similar to Melasma creams
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