Good Evening.
Just saw this post and albeit it is now 48+ hrs since posted and you may have already consulted someone, thought would see if i could help.
Melasma is a Dermatologist's Graveyard.
Extremely difficult condition to get rid of.
Quick fixes like the crema you used contain a triple agent including a steroid and hydroquinone. It's the latter that may be causing the reaction and increased darkening of skin.
Grades of Melasma decide what medication to offer and sadly it has to be tailor made for an individual.
Stress & Hormonal fluctuations et al play a huge role in this condition.
Light (UV light) that includes 🌞 are aggravating agents and best avoided.
Next Steps
ONLINE consultation since one doesn't know where you hail from
I'm from Blore and while online consultation works for most folks, those with Melasma I feel are best served with an in-person visit to the doc... again depends on your transport system and pocket and time.
Health Tips
🌞 Avoidance; use 🧢 ☔ in addition to a good quality sunscreen that works for you (again tailor made for an individual)
Pigment lightening agents of the non-HQ type
Certain lasers are reputed to be of help but be careful of tall claims.