However, medical guidelines specify that you should stop using hydroquinone if you haven't seen any results after about three months. Your doctor may recommend you try some new products that combine hydroquinone with other ingredients, such as glycolic acid.
Hydroquinone is applied topically just to the hyperpigmented skin only, twice daily for 3 months, after which time many patients maintain their improvement by using it twice each week. If there has been no benefit after 3 months of treatment, then the hydroquinone should be stopped.
The depigmenting effects of the HQ treatment become evident after 5-7 weeks. Treatment should be continued for at least three months, up to one year. [9] HQ is also formulated in combination with other agents like sunscreens, topical steroids, retinoids, and glycolic acids for added benefits.
Products containing hydroquinone are available with a prescription. These products are generally safe, but long-term use can cause issues, such as ochronosis.
Yes, melasma and other types of hyperpigmentation can come back after using hydroquinone.
taper the Hydroquinone. Gradual cessation will minimize any rebound increase activity of tyrosinase. o Apply only 3 times per week for 2 weeks. Then 2 times per week for 2 weeks, then stop use.
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.
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.
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.
These include medications such as hydroquinone, azelaic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, cysteamine, rucinol, and tranexamic acid. These medications work by reducing pigment production and inflammation, and by reducing excess blood vessels in the skin that contribute to melasma.
Melasma appears as symmetrical brown or grey-brown patches, usually on the face. These patches have clear edges and often show up on both sides of the face in a similar pattern. Hyperpigmentation, however, can show up anywhere on the body as spots, patches, or widespread dark areas.
Vitamin C can help reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone, with noticeable results in as little as 3-4 weeks. After two months of use, users may experience significant fading of hyperpigmentation.
Combination Tip: Combining hydroquinone with Vitamin C may improve overall efficacy, but due to potential sensitivities, this combination should only be used under the supervision of a dermatologist. Sunscreen: How It Works: Sunscreen is essential for preventing further hyperpigmentation caused by UV exposure.
10 The maximum concentration of hydroquinone alone, or in combination with p-hydroxyanisole, is reported to be 200 ppm (0.02%). After mixing 2 parts liquid to 1 part powder in preparation for use, the final concentration of hydroquinone, or hydroquinone and p-hydroxyanisole combined is approximately 133 ppm (0.0133%).
HQ is most often used at concentrations of 2-4% [16]. Studies have demonstrated that hyperpigmentation conditions respond very well to 2% HQ, and while higher concentrations are effective, they may cause adverse effects such as skin irritation [16].
A very important consideration patients should be aware of before starting HQ is that the HQ “Bleaching” effects are reversible, therefore, hyper-pigmentation usually returns after discontinued use in 1-2 months. It is also very important to wean off HQ slowly and gradually.
How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to fade? Once what's causing the dark spots or patches is found and stopped, fading can take time. A spot that is a few shades darker than your natural skin color will usually fade within 6 to 12 months.
Reason #1: You're Getting Too Much Sun
“Hyperpigmentation can be incredibly frustrating and tough to treat. One of the easiest things you can do at home to help with hyperpigmentation is to be vigilant with sun protection,” says Dr. Camille Howard, a board-certified dermatologist and IT Cosmetics Advisory Board Member.