Medical Xpress says melasma is treated with sun protection, topical medications and cosmetic procedures, often combined to achieve the best results.
Where topical treatment fits
Medical Xpress says that when considering melasma treatment overall, topical treatment is the key to success.
Medical Xpress also notes that topical hydroquinone is the most common lightening agent used.
Overviews of melasma
For a plain overview of the condition, see the MedlinePlus melasma encyclopedia entry and the AAD melasma overview.
How the answer plays out over a course
Because treatment is a combination, the plan is something you build in steps with a clinician rather than a single product you buy. Bring all three parts to that visit, and ask how each one fits your skin and your schedule.