Melano CC Medicated Whitening Lotion for Spots

No. The lotion is a hydrating toner (what Japanese skincare calls 'lotion'), while the essence is the concentrated vitamin C serum in the tube. They work well together: apply the lotion first as a hydrating layer, then follow with the essence for targeted brightening.

Yes, but if your skin feels dehydrated afterward, add a hydrating toner first. Some people find the vitamin C derivative slightly drying when applied to bare skin. Rohto recommends using it after a base hydrating layer.

Both work. Morning application gives antioxidant protection during the day, while nighttime allows the tranexamic acid and vitamin C derivative to work on pigmentation without sun exposure. Most users do mornings for prevention, nights for correction.