Lustra Cream / Melalite Forte Cream (generic name: hydroquinone 4%) is a topical medication used to treat melasma, hyperpigmentation, and age spots. It belongs to the class of skin lightening agents. This cream works by reducing the amount of melanin in the skin. Melanin is the pigment responsible for skin color, and excess melanin can lead to dark patches or spots.
Hydroquinone inhibits an enzyme called tyrosinase, which is necessary for melanin production. By blocking this enzyme, the cream gradually lightens the discolored areas of the skin. This effect is reversible and depends on continued application of the medication.
Women are much more likely than men to develop this condition, because the darkened skin patches can be due to hormonal changes during pregnancy or when taking birth control. In women, melasma often fades on its own after pregnancy or after an affected woman goes off birth control pills. Melasma can also be the result of over-exposure to sunlight.
Dosage
It is important to follow the dosage instructions printed on the label of the box. Check with a doctor or pharmacist if there are any questions regarding the proper use of Lustra Cream / Melalite Forte Cream.
Treatment with hydroquinone is typically short-term. If no improvement is seen after a few months, a person may be advised to stop use and consult a doctor. The medication should not be used on broken or irritated skin, and care must be taken to avoid sun exposure while using the cream.
The usage regimen is to:
- Apply a thin layer of the cream to the affected area once daily, usually at bedtime, avoiding healthy skin as much as possible..
- Use on clean, dry skin, covering the discolored patch and a small area of surrounding normal skin.
- Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, nose, and open wounds.
- Wash hands thoroughly after applying, unless hands are being treated.
- If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as remembered. Skip the missed dose if it is close to the time for the next application. Do not double-dose to make up for a missed dose.
- Consult a doctor if no results are observed after two months of consistent use.
Storage
- Store the cream at room temperature, below 25°C (77°F).
- Keep the tube tightly closed and away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Do not freeze the medication.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Discard any unused medication after the expiration date or as advised by a pharmacist.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
Read the information leaflet that comes with the medication.
Most people who use Lustra Cream / Melalite Forte Cream do not experience any adverse side effects. Doctors prescribe this medication because they assess the benefits of such treatment outweigh any likely unwanted effects.
Some of the side effects that have been reported include:
- Redness or mild irritation
- Dry or peeling skin
- Itching or stinging at the application site
Rare but more serious side effects can include:
- Allergic reactions, such as rash, swelling, or severe irritation
- Blue-black skin discoloration, known as ochronosis, particularly with long-term use
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight
Not all side effects are listed here. If these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Lustra Cream / Melalite Forte Cream is used for treating melasma, a skin condition that causes brown or gray patches, typically on the face. These patches often develop due to hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or oral contraceptive use, and become more noticeable with sun exposure. The darker patches of skin appear most often on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin.
It is also effective for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, where dark spots develop after skin injury, acne, or eczema. Freckles and age spots, caused by UV exposure, can also be treated.
In some cases, hydroquinone is prescribed off-label for discoloration related to acne or minor burns. These off-label uses focus on improving the appearance of uneven skin tone and restoring a more uniform complexion.