Alternative lightening agents including mequinol, arbutin, kojic acid, and others have shown comparable efficacy to hydroquinone in treating hyperpigmentation with less concerning side effects.
Koreans often use a combination of skincare products and treatments for skin whitening, including brightening serums, masks, and exfoliants. Ingredients such as niacinamide, arbutin, and vitamin C are popular.
In South Korea, OTC hydroquinone has been banned by federal regulations; however, imported and online cosmetic products containing hydroquinone, mercury, and steroid agents are available.
In conclusion, Korean red ginseng powder showed good tolerability and beneficial effects in patients with melasma. The use of Korean red ginseng would be counted as a useful adjunctive therapy for patients with melasma.
South Korea is also famed for their skincare products, including prescription-grade lightening creams. These creams typically contain ingredients like hydroquinone, arbutin, niacinamide, vitamin C and kojic acid, which have proven beneficial in treating hyperpigmentation.
Acupuncture is a low-injury non-pharmacological treatment. This study more comprehensively assessed the therapeutic effects of acupuncture on melasma. Acupuncture may be a safe and effective treatment option for melasma. The findings are at some risk of publication and regional bias.
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.
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.
Apply Hydroquinone 2% to the affected area 1–2 times daily (morning and before bed). 〮Prior to regular application, conduct a 24-hour skin irritation test (e.g., behind the ears, inside the arms). If no reactions occur during the test, then proceed with usage.
“What is Cinderella Treatment?” Cinderella Treatment is a skin quality improvement treatment specially developed by Elm Clinic for whitening and acne treatment.It is a luxurious gel that can only be tasted at medical institutions, using vitamin A, vitamin C, human stem cell culture fluid, exosomes, etc.
Koreans take skincare very seriously, and that is evident from their beautiful glowing skin. Not all of that is genetic. It's the result of an extensive skincare routine and naturally sourced hydrating extracts present in almost all Korean skincare ranges.
One of the most popular beauty ingredients from South Korea, Kojic acid has many beauty benefits.
10% azelaic acid over the counter products have also been shown to improve hyperpigmentation concerns such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne, sun spots, and melasma; the results being equal to 4% pharmaceutical HQ. Kojic acid is another acid that specializes in reducing unwanted pigment within the skin.
Cysteamine has been used in skincare products for over 50 years. It's a potent antioxidant that's produced by skin cells. While hydroquinone does work to provide temporary results, cysteamine has shown to be a viable long-term solution, not only among users, but in renowned clinical studies.
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.
Laser treatment
The most popular and recent laser treatments are Co2 and Q switch which are magical for darker skin. The laser breaks the pigment, makes it smaller, and vanishes it on repeated sessions. That's how the skin gets lightened and whitened. It can be done for full body skin laser whitening or a part thereof.
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. Darkening depigmented skin is also extremely difficult.
hyperpigmentation treatment options
Topical Treatments: Products with alpha/beta hydroxy acids, Vitamin C, and melanin suppressants (e.g., hydroquinone alternatives) can reduce dark spots. Melanin Suppressants: Help control melanin production to balance pigmentation.
The best alternative to Hydroquinone is a product called Cyspera, which effectively reduces pigmentation marks and banishes melasma, leaving a naturally clearer complexion. Its key active ingredient is cysteamine, which is proven to be even more effective than Hydroquinone.
No, azelaic acid does not have the capability to permanently lighten your skin - it is not destroying melanin - it simply disrupts/slows melanin production.
One concern is that it may cause the opposite effect of hyperpigmentation, called ochronosis. This is a condition where the skin becomes dark and thick, which can be difficult to treat. Hydroquinone can also cause skin irritation, especially if it is used in high concentrations or for long periods of time.
In addition to sun protection, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction can reduce melasma flare-ups. Supplements containing vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B12, and vitamin A can be taken along with at-home topical treatments like aloe vera and turmeric to reduce inflammation and increase skin health.
Hydroquinone: This is a common treatment for melasma. It is applied to the skin and works to even out the skin tone. Hydroquinone is no longer available in products that you can buy without a prescription.
Most cases of melasma will fade away with time and especially with good protection from sunlight and other sources of light. Unfortunately, there is no definitive treatment that will automatically make melasma disappear. At this time there is no way to remove dermal pigment.