Ochronosis is a condition that causes the skin to darken where the cream was applied instead of becoming lighter. It is rare and typically only occurs with high concentrations of hydroquinone. When the correct dose is used, ochronosis is not an issue.
Does Hyperpigmentation Get Darker Before It Fades? Yes, sometimes, the body speeds up pigment production before the cells break down and fade. But sometimes, the dark spots can also fade without getting darker first.
Hydroquinone is a skin-bleaching agent that is used to lighten areas of skin. Hydroquinone works by decreasing the production and increasing the breakdown of melanosomes in melanocytes. In most cases, lightening of skin should be seen after four weeks of treatment.
Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Stop using hydroquinone and tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: blistering, skin cracking, blue-black darkening of the skin.
Ochronosis is a condition that causes the skin to darken where the cream was applied instead of becoming lighter. It is rare and typically only occurs with high concentrations of hydroquinone. When the correct dose is used, ochronosis is not an issue.
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.
Attempts to change the entire skin tone are often much riskier. It can result in patchy, uneven pigmentation or in hyperpigmentation, making the skin darker in places. For example, hydroquinone can cause ochronosis, which is blue or black discoloration.
Numerous variables, such as sun exposure, hormone changes, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, ageing, skin conditions, and lifestyle choices, can cause skin darkening. Understanding the underlying reasons will help us avoid or cure darker skin tones.
Avoid irritants: Be mindful of other skincare products or ingredients that may potentially irritate your skin. Avoid using harsh cleansers, exfoliants, or other products that can cause irritation or sensitivity while using hydroquinone.
Rarely ochronosis - ochronosis is a blue-black or gray-blue discoloration; it is rare and more commonly seen in patients that use a high concentration of hydroquinone for a long period on large areas of the body.
Apply hydroquinone in a thin layer to affected areas of the face. Do not apply it to other areas of the face; otherwise, it will bleach that skin.
As the skin constantly regenerates these dark spots tend to darker with time in most people. But dark spots tend to form faster and are difficult to fade away and get more deeply rooted when left untreated.
Some people may experience side effects when using tretinoin, especially as their skin adjusts. Also, it's possible for irritation from tretinoin to make skin darker, especially if you have more melanated skin.
Immediate pigment darkening (IPD) is a transitory darkening of the skin observed after UVA exposure. The melanocytic system is implicated in its development. Indeed, it involves structural changes in melanocytes and keratinocytes and a chemical modification of pre-existing melanin.
The reversibility of skin discoloration depends on the cause. Dermatologists can recommend treatments such as topical creams, laser therapy, or chemical peels based on the specific condition.
Estrogen and progesterone are two of the major factors responsible for catamenial hyperpigmentation of the skin.
Darkening of Skin (Ochronosis)
Ochronosis is also a common risk when hydroquinone is misused. According to research, ochranonsis is a condition that might occur following long-term application of skin-lightening creams containing 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.
Shortly following Jackson's death, tubes of Benoquin and hydroquinone were found in Jackson's home. Both creams are commonly used to treat vitiligo; David Sawcer said some patients with vitiligo remove dark areas of skin when most of their skin has become pale.
The active lightening agents interacts with the skin causing the pigments to rapidly pull toward the skin surface, which increases melanin production. This is the reason behind the temporary darkening. Once the pigments reach the skin surface the cells are prepared to be gently exfoliated and gradually shred away.
Hydroquinone's lightening effects are generally visible after 4 weeks of treatment, though some conditions may require a longer treatment plan. If no visible changes occur after 3 months of treatment, you should stop using hydroquinone and consult with your dermatologist about alternative treatment options.
How long does it take hydroquinone to work? As is generally the case with skincare products, results vary from person to person. That said, many start seeing their dark spots lighten after about 8-12 weeks of using hydroquinone.