Is there a time when you feel like the melasma treatment is just starting to show results?

I didn't used to have any major concerns about pigmentation on my face, but recently, the inside of my cheeks has started to look slightly brown in places, so I started thinking about melasma treatment.

It isn't very dark yet and is only visible up close, but it seems to be getting a little wider over time, so I'm wondering if I should get it treated before it gets worse.

I'm having a hard time with melasma because I hear that it's best to manage it in the early stages, but I also hear that irritating it can make it darker.

Can I expect effective melasma treatment even at this early stage?

I am also wondering if melasma treatment necessarily has to start only after the pigmentation has progressed significantly. I would like to know if, during a consultation, you can determine whether immediate management is necessary or if it is okay to wait and see a little longer.