Hydroquinone has also frequently been misused. It must not be used as an all-over skin lightening treatment and such procedures should be avoided. After much research, dermatologists have concluded that, in low concentrations, hydroquinone is safe to use and can produce some excellent results.
You need a doctor's prescription to buy hydroquinone cream online or in a physical pharmacy. You can have a online consultation with a dermatologist. After the consultation they will issue a prescription containing for hydroquinone cream if it's safe and medically appropriate for you.
While oral consumption probably is not related to topical application, hydroquinone remains controversial because it actually is toxic to melanocytes. Hydroquinone, a phenolic compound chemically known as 1,4 dihydroxybenzene, functions by inhibiting the enzymatic oxidation of tyrosine and phenol oxidases.
Research has shown that, hydroquinone has many serious side effects. Hydroquinone works by decreasing the production and increasing the degradation of melanin pigments in the skin. This increases the skin's exposure to UVA and UVB rays, increasing the risk of skin cancer.
A study testing a hydroquinone monotherapy indicated an 85% satisfaction rate after a 12-week period, with 90% of participants reporting that they no longer made significant efforts to hide skin discoloration (Grimes).
Niacinamide is a top skincare ingredient that effectively fades dark spots and melasma on skin. Compared to hydroquinone, niacinamide is a skincare ingredient with zero cancer risk. Plus, it brings more than just melasma-fading benefits to your skin.
Hydroquinone 4%
In most cases, lightening of skin should be seen after four weeks of treatment. Stop using Hydroquinone 2 days prior to any procedure.
With GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status, hexylresorcinol is a great choice for beauty brands seeking to provide skin lightening and even toning benefits in their next skin care formula. Hexylresorcinol was introduced to the skin care market in 2007 under the trade name Synovea® HR.
Additionally, hydroquinone rebound hyperpigmentation can occur if treatment is stopped too early (its best to stay on it for at least 3 months) or when there is sudden cessation or reduction of hydroquinone use. This causes the skin to overcompensate and produce an excess of melanin.
Tretinoin is an anti-aging powerhouse, meaning it should have no problem dispatching fine lines and wrinkles. It does not work for deeper wrinkles. Hydroquinone doesn't work at all against fine lines and wrinkles, so stick to the collagen-boosting power of tretinoin.
In terms of drug interactions, Hydroquinone can react badly with certain products including peroxides (found in hair products and some acne treatments), resorcinol, phenol, and salicylic acid. Using Hydroquinone with these products may cause temporary staining of the skin.
Instructions for using hydroquinone safely and effectively
Apply a thin layer: Take a small amount of hydroquinone and apply it as a thin layer all over the face - if applied to small affected areas it can lead to a halo effect.
We recommend taking a 2 month break after 3 months of application. Since hydroquinone is a photosensitive agent, It is also important to use SPF 30 or higher daily when on hydroquinone.
Currently, hydroquinone cream is available by prescription only. The FDA no longer approves the sale of over-the-counter (OTC) hydroquinone cream.
For years, 4% Hydroquinone, a prescription drug, has been considered the gold standard for treating hyperpigmentation and is the key ingredient in our Obagi Nu-Derm® Systems.
Hydroquinone works by suppressing the production of melanin, the brown or black substance that regulates skin pigmentation. Over time, blemishes, scars, or other colored areas fade. However, the effect is reversible; stopping treatment and exposure to sunlight can reverse the condition.
As a rule, you should stop using hydroquinone after 3-6 months of continuous use. This is because prolonged use of hydroquinone can lead to adverse effects on the skin, such as ochronosis, skin irritation, and sensitivity. There are several signs that it may be time to stop using hydroquinone.
Most commonly, celebrities resort to chemical peels or laser therapy to get rid of hyperpigmentation fast. Others opt for vitamin C supplements, retinol, or serums to lighten their skin.
Second, the finding that azelaic acid has a better safety profile than hydroquinone suggests that it may be especially suitable for individuals susceptible to skin irritation or concerned about hydroquinone's potential adverse effects.
We now know that decreasing the amount of melanin in the skin, as hydroquinone does, creates photosensitivity. Without proper sunscreen use (SPF ≥30, with frequent reapplication), photosensitivity leads to inflammation which stimulates melanin production.
Should I apply hydroquinone or tretinoin first? According to Dr. Mohta, if you are using two separate medications, you should apply hydroquinone in the evening after applying tretinoin.
Multiple studies have shown that maximum results occur when using hydroquinone as a combination therapy with a retinoid and corticosteroid. The most widely used triple combination cream is composed of hydroquinone 4%, tretinoin 0.05%, and fluocinolone acetonide 0.01%.