Q: What is Melalite XL Cream?
A fixed‑dose, prescription combination of:
-
Hydroquinone 2% w/w (tyrosinase inhibitor)
-
Mometasone furoate 0.1% w/w (potent topical corticosteroid)
-
Tretinoin 0.025% w/w (all‑trans retinoic acid)
Used for the short‑term treatment (up to 8 weeks) of moderate to severe melasma and post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation on the face in adults.
Q: What are the alternate or generic names?
-
Triple‑combination depigmenting cream
-
Hydroquinone–mometasone–tretinoin cream
-
Comparable brands in other markets: Tri‑Luma® (U.S.), Melasolve® TC (India)
Q: How does Melalite XL work?
-
Hydroquinone inhibits tyrosinase, reducing melanin synthesis.
-
Tretinoin normalizes keratinocyte desquamation, enhances epidermal turnover and promotes hydroquinone penetration.
-
Mometasone mitigates inflammatory responses and minimizes irritant dermatitis associated with retinoid/hydroquinone use.
Q: How should it be used?
-
Wash with a mild, non‑medicated cleanser; pat dry.
-
Wait 20–30 minutes to ensure complete dryness.
-
Apply a thin film of cream once nightly to the affected areas, avoiding eyes, lips and mucous membranes.
-
After application, wash hands unless treating hands.
-
Use strict sun‑avoidance measures: daily broad‑spectrum SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Q: What is the recommended dosage and duration?
-
Dosage: a pea‑sized amount per lesion, covering the entire hyperpigmented area.
-
Duration: maximum 8 weeks. Do not exceed without re‑evaluation by a dermatologist.
Q: What safety information and precautions apply?
-
Pregnancy (Category C): contraindicated.
-
Lactation: not recommended; discuss alternatives.
-
Children (<18 years): safety not established.
-
Long‑term corticosteroid use: risk of skin atrophy, telangiectasia—limit to 2 months.
-
Photosensitivity: avoid UV exposure; retinoid component increases risk of sunburn.
Q: What are the common side‑effects?
-
Local skin reactions: burning, stinging, dryness, peeling, erythema, pruritus.
-
Corticosteroid‑related: mild skin atrophy, hypopigmentation, telangiectasia (rare with short‑term use).
-
Retinoid‑related: transient redness, scaling.
Q: What warnings and drug interactions should be considered?
-
Avoid concomitant use of other topical irritants (benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, alpha‑hydroxy acids).
-
Systemic absorption of mometasone is negligible, but prolonged use over large surface areas may increase systemic corticosteroid exposure.
-
No significant interactions with systemic medications have been reported in clinical studies when used as directed.
Q: What clinical evidence supports Melalite XL’s efficacy?
Randomized, double‑blind trials comparing triple‑combination cream to hydroquinone monotherapy demonstrated:
-
≥ 70 % reduction in Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) scores by week 8.
-
Faster onset of visible lightening vs. dual or single‑agent regimens.
-
Comparable tolerability with appropriate anti‑inflammatory dosing.
Q: How is it classified?
Q: Where can I purchase Melalite XL Cream?
Order from Waldrugmart Online Pharmacy:
https://waldrugmart.com/products/melalite-xl-cream
Detailed FAQs
Q: When will I see improvement?
Initial lightening may appear within 2–4 weeks; optimal results typically at 6–8 weeks. Continued use beyond 8 weeks is not recommended without medical review.
Q: Can I use Melalite XL on body areas other than the face?
Efficacy and safety have been established only for facial melasma. Off‑label use on other sites should be under specialist supervision.
Q: What if irritation becomes intolerable?
Discontinue for 3–5 days; resume every other night. If severe, stop treatment and consult your dermatologist.
Q: Is it safe for dark skin phototypes?
Yes. Hydroquinone is effective across Fitzpatrick skin types III–VI, but careful monitoring for ochronosis and post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation is advised.
Q: Can I layer makeup over Melalite XL?
Wait at least 30 minutes after application, then use non‑comedogenic, mineral‑based cosmetics.
Q: Are there alternative therapies for melasma?
Chemical peels (glycolic, salicylic), laser modalities and oral tranexamic acid may be considered, often in combination with topical agents.
This information is provided for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always follow your prescriber’s guidance and refer to the full prescribing information before use.
Prescription Required 
India
