MelaNosa Hydroquinone Cream 30g Parallel Imported

MelaNosa Cream is a medical-grade pigmentation treatment product manufactured by South Korea's Dong-A Pharmaceutical.

The "Enhanced Version" indicates a higher concentration of its active ingredient (Hydroquinone 4%), compared to standard over-the-counter versions which typically contain 2%. This makes it a stronger treatment designed for stubborn, deep-seated pigmentation, but it also requires more cautious use.

Below is a detailed breakdown of its ingredients, benefits, and crucial usage instructions.

1. Core Ingredient & Mechanism

• Key Ingredient: Hydroquinone 4%

• How it Works: Hydroquinone is considered the "gold standard" by dermatologists for skin lightening. It works by inhibiting tyrosinase (an enzyme crucial for melanin production) to stop new pigment from forming, while also breaking down existing melanin cells (melanocytes), effectively "bleaching" dark spots.

2. Primary Benefits

This product specifically targets various forms of Hyperpigmentation:

• Facial Spots: Melasma (chloasma/liver spots), freckles, sun spots, and age spots.

• Acne Marks: Dark marks left behind after inflammation (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation or PIH).

• Body Pigmentation: While primarily for the face, it can be used on areas prone to darkening like elbows, knees, and underarms.

3. How to Use Correctly (CRITICAL)

Because this is a strong medicinal cream, incorrect use can lead to skin irritation or "rebound hyperpigmentation" (making spots worse). Please follow these steps strictly:

1. Spot Treatment Only:

   • This is NOT a moisturizer for your entire face.

   • Apply it only to the specific dark spots you want to treat. It is recommended to use a cotton swab for precise application to tiny areas.

2. Application Order:

   • Face Wash -> Toner/Serum -> Lotion/Moisturizer -> Apply MelaNosa Cream as the very last step.

   • Applying it after your basic skincare has fully absorbed helps reduce potential irritation.

3. Frequency & Timing:

   • Nightime Use is Highly Recommended. Hydroquinone makes the skin extremely sensitive to sunlight. Using it just before sleep is safest.

   • If you must use it during the day, you MUST apply a high-protection sunscreen (SPF50+ PA++++) over it and rigorously avoid direct sunlight, otherwise the spots may darken further.

4. Cautions & Side Effects

• Extreme Sun Sensitivity: During the treatment period, your skin will be very vulnerable to UV rays. Failure to use adequate sun protection will result in severe darkening of the treated area.

• Patch Test Required: Before first use, perform a sensitivity test behind your ear or on the inside of your wrist. Discontinue immediately if severe redness, burning, or stinging occurs.

• Treatment Cycle:

  • It is recommended to use continuously for a 2-month cycle.

  • Break Period: After 2 months of use, take a break for 1-2 months. Continuous, long-term use without breaks can lead to resistance or a rare side effect called Ochronosis (permanent blue-black discoloration of the skin).

• Storage: The active ingredient oxidizes easily (turning brown/yellow). Use quickly after opening and store in a cool, dark place away from heat.

Summary Recommendation

MelaNosa Cream (4%) is a potent treatment suitable for individuals struggling with stubborn, older pigmentation marks like melasma or sun spots.

• Recommended for: People with persistent spots who can commit to strict sun protection and careful spot application.

• Not Recommended for: Pregnant or breastfeeding women (Hydroquinone is contraindicated), those with extremely sensitive skin, or anyone unable to commit to daily high-SPF sun protection.