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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Alternative lightening agents including mequinol, arbutin, kojic acid, and others have shown comparable efficacy to hydroquinone in treating hyperpigmentation with less concerning side effects.
Bio Claire Lightening Body Cream Without Hydroquinone 320 ml.
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.
According to research, ochranonsis is a condition that might occur following long-term application of skin-lightening creams containing hydroquinone. Ochranosis may cause darkening of the skin, instead of fading a particular spot. Long-term use of Hydroquinone creams may also lead to exogenous ochronotic lesions.
One alternative is azelaic acid, which can be used when pregnant or breastfeeding, both of which are times when hormones can drive pigmentation to worsen. It can even be used when other issues co-exist, such as acne or rosacea. Vitamin A is another great ingredient.
No, azelaic acid does not have the capability to permanently lighten your skin - it is not destroying melanin - it simply disrupts/slows melanin production.
Hydroquinone may prove beneficial for a maximum of five to six months. Once you stop using it, you may experience irritation on the affected parts of your body. This may lead to inflammation. This inflammation may be dangerous as your skin then begins to build resistance to the treatment after a certain time.
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.
Japanese pharmaceutical cosmetics, often referred to as quasi-drugs, contain skin-lightening active ingredients formulated to prevent sun-induced pigment spots and freckles. Their mechanisms of action include suppressing melanin production in melanocytes and promoting epidermal growth to eliminate melanin more rapidly.
Natural ingredients like lemon, turmeric, aloe vera, papaya, and licorice extract are known for their skin-brightening properties. They help in reducing dark spots, uneven skin tone, and hyperpigmentation, giving you a healthy and radiant complexion.
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.
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.
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.
Tri-Luma (fluocinolone/hydroquinone/tretinoin) - Uses, Side Effects, and More. Overview: Tri-Luma is used to treat a condition called melasma, which is where colored areas appear on the face. Tri-Luma contains three medicines.