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.
Alternative lightening agents including mequinol, arbutin, kojic acid, and others have shown comparable efficacy to hydroquinone in treating hyperpigmentation with less concerning side effects.
Conclusions. We conclude that azelaic acid may be better than hydroquinone in reducing melasma severity as measured by the MASI. However, no significant difference between both treatments regarding the side effects.
Kojic Acid offers antioxidant support and brightens skin tone while Niacinamide helps to improve pigmentation, resulting in a more flawless, radiant complexion.
Instead of powerful whitening agents like hydroquinone, K-beauty products typically rely on niacinamide, which is also used by many mainstream Western beauty brands, including Olay. You'll also find plenty of arbutin, a gentler and safer chemical cousin of hydroquinone.
In China, Korea, and Japan, washing one's face with rice water was also practiced, as it was believed to naturally whiten skin. Historians also noted that as East Asian women immigrated to the United States, immigrant women engaged in skin lightening more frequently than women who did not immigrate.
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.
However, skin lightening treatments such as laser toning and chemical peels are USFDA-approved for safety as they aim to reduce melanin buildup in the skin. However, it is advisable to consult a certified dermatologist to know which skin lightening treatment option is best for you.
Arbutin. According to Dr. Green, “Arbutin is a natural form of hydroquinone derived from the bearberry plant. It is a safer and effective alternative to hydroquinone and is less cytotoxic to the melanocytes.” Use it gradually during the first few weeks to make sure your skin doesn't react.
Perfect White Lightening Beauty Lotion Without Hydroquinone- 250ml.
Hydroquinone (1,4-dihydroxybenzene, Figure 1) is a very simple phenolic structure that appears in secondary plant metabolites present in species with different phylogenies, with the most prominent taxa being found in Ericales, Lamiales and Asterales.
Avoid using hydroquinone with peroxide products such as benzoyl peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, which can cause discoloration. 3. Avoid alpha hydroxy acids. The combination of hydroquinone and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) can irritate your skin.
Ambi Even & Clear Fade Cream, Hydroquinone-free, Hyperpigmentation Treatment, Dark Spot Corrector, Results In As Little As 4 Weeks, Niacinamide, Aloe Vera, Vitamin C, 1 Fl Oz.
Yes, creams with hydroquinone are not over-the-counter. 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.
Clear Essence Lemon Plus Vitamin C Serum for Face (0.5 Oz) – Hydroquinone-Free Vitamin C Facial Serum for Even Skin Tone, Fading Dark Spots & Flawless Complexion | Safe for All Skin Types. The video showcases the product in use.
Arbutin and kojic acids are safe and currently used as cosmetic additives. Arbutin shows good photo stability. Plant extracts are generally safe without cytotoxicity and cause least irritation. Licorice is the safest pigment-lightening agents with the fewest side effects and most commonly used SLA in cosmetics.
Hydroquinone (HQ), a hydroxyphenolic derivative of benzene, occurs naturally as an ingredient in various plant-derived foods and beverages, such as vegetables (e.g., onions), fruits (particularly cranberries, blueberries, and pears), grains (especially wheat, wheat germ, and rice), coffee, tea, beer, and red wine.
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.
Hydroquinone (HQ)
HQ is the agent of choice for skin lightening. Combining HQ with a steroid cream and tretinoin have superior efficacy when compared to HQ alone. Although it's considered safe, there may be side effects and is subject to pre-market approval by Health Sciences Authority (HSA).
Retinol and retinoids increase the rate of skin cell turnover, sloughing away dead and discolored skin cells to reveal healthier, even-toned skin cells. Hydroquinone is another popular active ingredient in skin lightening creams that works by inhibiting the production of melanin by melanocytes in the skin.
Luckily, the answer is yes! 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.
Aloe vera is a fantastic melasma treatment at home, known for its soothing and healing properties. Applying fresh aloe vera gel to affected areas can help reduce pigmentation and improve overall skin health. Leave the gel on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing.
The most commonly used treatments for melasma are skin lightening medications that are applied topically. These include medications such as hydroquinone, azelaic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, cysteamine, rucinol, and tranexamic acid.