Hello. Thanks for writing to us at healthcaremagic You seem to have developed Melasma. Melasma presents as hyperpigmentation commonly over the cheek bones/malar area; other areas like nose, forehead, upper lips may also be involved. The cream that has been suggested by your friend is a prescription product. It is a combination of tretinoin, hydroquinone and mometasone. This conbination should always be used under the supervision of a dermatologist and never for more than 6-8 weeks since regular use of this combination can cause side effects like acne,photosensitivity, hirsutism etc. Azaleic acid, Hydroquinone, Kojic acid, Arbutin, Glycolic acid, licorice extract are other pigment lightening agents that may also be used. If I was the treating doctor I would have started you on combination of tretinoin, hydroquinone and mometasone for a month or so. Thereafter I would have substituted it with a different cream containing either hydroquinone, kojic acid, Azaleic acid etc. Along with the creams, you may also opt for a few sessions of chemical peeling from your dermatologist. Sunscreen is an essential part in the management of any facial hyperpigmentation including melasma. I would suggest you to use a broad spectrum sunscreen, throughout the day. Reapply every 2-3 hours. It should have both UV A as well as UV B coverage. A broad spectrum sunscreen that has a minimum spf of 30, would be suitable. You may find one such sunscreen OTC from a drug store Or you may also get it prescribed from a dermatologist. Melasma may take time to respond and you have to be patient with the treatment and follow up regularly with a dermatologist. Your dermatologist might change or modify treatment according to the response. Regards