A Google Scholar search for "Melasma" returns more than 32 thousand results (as of August 2025). Many of these articles cannot be accessed for free.
The good news is that scientists have been looking into melasma... but no wonder we are so confused!
You can check out this 2024 review paper that analyses the research hotspots and trends based on 2.7k recent scientific publications.
More research is needed. A 2015 study suggests that multiple visible light exposures create pigmentation (little effect was found after single exposure). The study used skin from the abdomen and doesn't explicitly mention melasma or light from mobile phones. Another study concludes that the use of electronic devices does not worsen melasma
A large 2019 study from India suggests that the duration of cooking fire/occupational heat exposure may be linked to the severity of melasma. The study notes that in the Indian context, cooking practices are "mostly done in front of open furnaces", so the results might not replicate in other contexts.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, this is controversial. Some research suggests that stress causes the body to make more of the hormone cortisol, which might trigger melasma.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, "if your thyroid gland develops a problem, this may increase your risk of developing melasma".
There isn't enough evidence to recommend any of these. Some might even make melasma worse by making the skin more light-sensitive.
You should visit a dermatologist. The British Skin Foundation page has some pictures that you might find helpful.
Hydroquinone has been defined as the "biological equivalent of paint stripper", and it can only be prescribed by doctors because it requires careful monitoring.
According to my literature searches (note again that I am not a dermatologist!), as of July 2023, scientists have found that HIGH DOSES of hydroquinone, taken ORALLY (ingested), can cause cancer in RATS. There have been no cancer cases regarding cancer and hydroquinone taken topically (as a cream), in low doses, on humans.
The best scientific article I found on this topic is Searle et al. (2021).
The best magazine article I found on this topic is this.