Hi Welcome to Healthcare Magic Forum I understand your concern for a dark skin,,But what is most important is that the skin should be healthy,,, We as dermatologists , cannot change the basic colour of one s skin or the skin complexion. Ya, we can improve the skin tone in cases with some hyperpigmentation due to some causes or in people who tend to develop excessive tanning,,,, The cream that you are mentioning ie Lobate is a potent steroid which is not to be applied over the face unless prescribed by a dermatologist...It can lead to various problems like skin thinning, redness, hair growth , irrtation and many more.. Hydroquinone is a good lightening agent and is commonly prescribed by dermatologists but this also has to be used only under medical supervision,,,It is to be applied at day time only.. So my advise is that you can opt for some milder lightening agents which can be used harmlessly for a longer period of time You can start using a lightening agent like kojic acid with vitamin C twice a day. Along with it, you should continously use a sunscreen( spf 26) over your face before going out in the sun..Also take oral vitamin C supplementation continously for a month or so... If inspite of all these measures, you feel that the pigmentation continues to persisit, then i would advise you to see a dermatologist who might be able to help you with other techniques like chemical peels, dermabrasion , lasers etc Hope it helps Best regards Dr Geetika Paul