Self‐applied topical interventions for melasma: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of data from randomized, investigator‐blinded clinical trials
randomized, split-face
EVIDENCE COMPARISON
DirectionalNo Skincare
vs Hydroquinone
for Pigmentation Reduction
Early or indirect evidence suggests hydroquinone may reduce pigmentation 1.5 times more effectively than no treatment for improving skin tone, based on indirect comparison.
1.50x
Effect ratio
No Skincare
Favored
2
Studies
Indirect
Comparison
This is an indirect comparison — the two ingredients were not tested head-to-head in the same trial. The ratio is derived from separate studies against a common comparator.
Tone
How to read this claim
Kept public as exploratory because it indirect comparison; includes estimated measurement; early-stage evidence tier.
Some study-specific context may affect how broadly this comparison generalizes.