New triple cream takes on melasma in Head-to-Head trial

NCT ID NCT07508098

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This completed Phase 4 trial tested whether a triple-combination cream (containing N-acetylcysteine, hydroquinone, and triamcinolone acetate) works better than standard 4% hydroquinone cream for facial melasma. Fifty middle-aged men and women applied one of the creams twice daily for 8 weeks. The main goal was to see how many achieved at least a 60% reduction in their melasma severity score.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Triple combination cream (4.7% N-acetylcysteine, 2% hydroquinone, 0.1% triamcinolone acetate) and 4% hydroquinone cream

What this could lead to

If the triple cream works better, it could offer a more effective topical option for managing melasma with fewer side effects.

What could go wrong

This is a small, single-site study with only 50 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Melasma often requires ongoing treatment, and any improvement may not be permanent.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Melanosis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Dermatology Department of Tertiary Care Hospital

    Rawalpindi, Punjab Province, 46000, Pakistan