This is a single blind (outcomes assessor), randomized, 2 cell, full face study to evaluate changes in mild malar melasma through use of a cosmetic facial serum formulation or marketed 2% hydroquinone. This study will accept up to fifty participants per cell (100 participants overall) who meet the inclusion/exclusion criteria to ensure that at least forty participants per cell complete the study. Participants will be randomized to receive either the cosmetic product or the hydroquinone product.~The study schedule will be different depending which product the subject is allocated to.~If accepted onto the study, all participants will be provided with a marketed face wash and moisturiser to use for one week before the baseline visit.~At the baseline visit, following collection of baseline measures subjects will be allocated to either the cosmetic product or 2% hydroquinone. Products will be applied only to lesional areas on the face twice daily. Participants will also be provided with a sunscreen for use throughout the test phase of the study. They will continue to use the face wash and moisturiser with which they have previously been provided.~Participants allocated to the cosmetic product will be asked to return to the study centre for assessments at weeks 4, 8, 12 and regression (8 weeks after stopping product application).~Participants allocated to 2% hydroquinone will be asked to return to the study centre 3 days, 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks after baseline and regression 8 weeks after stopping product application).
This is a single centre, 2-cell, single blinded full-face (products applied at lesional sites) study to evaluate changes in melasma through a cosmetic facial serum formulation and marketed 2% Hydroquinone product