Why can't I find hydroquinone?

Author: Sammie Shields II  |  Last update: Friday, August 8, 2025

Skin lightening products containing the ingredients hydroquinone or mercury may cause harm. The over-the-counter sale of these products is illegal in the U.S. Read skin product labels to identify ingredients and consult with your health care provider about treatment options.

Is hydroquinone being discontinued?

Hydroquinone 2% cream, which was marketed for years as an OTC skin-lightening agent was classified by the FDA as category II and has now been removed from shelves.

Why can't i find hydroquinone cream?

Hydroquinone Use and Availability: Hydroquinone is a popular skin-lightening ingredient used to treat conditions like melasma and hyperpigmentation, but it now requires a prescription due to FDA regulations and potential health risks.

What is the best alternative to 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.

Do doctors still prescribe hydroquinone?

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.

Dr Julia Explains | How to use Hydroquinone correctly

What is more powerful than hydroquinone?

Arbutin has been found to be the most effective active ingredient in our study, even more so than hydroquinone, despite being a naturally occurring derivative.

What is the controversy with hydroquinone cream?

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.

Is tranexamic acid better than hydroquinone?

The occurrence of adverse effects with HQ was significantly higher when compared to TA (P < 0.05) and this could explain better patient satisfaction with TA observed in our study (P = 0.03).

What not to mix hydroquinone with?

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.

What is the best chemical for skin lightening?

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).

What is the safest skin lightening product?

With GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status, hexylresorcinol is a great choice for beauty brands seeking to provide skin lightening and even toning benefits in their next skin care formula. Hexylresorcinol was introduced to the skin care market in 2007 under the trade name Synovea® HR.

Does Musely actually work?

Customer reviews on the Musely website are positive, with most products receiving 4 out of 5 stars. Positive reviews claim the products are effective and provide visible results. Many reviews on Musely's website describe how customers struggled to find treatments that worked for them before using Musely.

Does Obagi have hydroquinone in it?

For years, 4% Hydroquinone, a prescription drug, has been considered the gold standard for treating hyperpigmentation and is the key ingredient in our Obagi Nu-Derm® Systems.

Why can't I buy hydroquinone?

Skin lightening products containing the ingredients hydroquinone or mercury may cause harm. The over-the-counter sale of these products is illegal in the U.S. Read skin product labels to identify ingredients and consult with your health care provider about treatment options.

Which cream is best for skin whitening according to a dermatologist?

Sort by:
  • Sun Moist lip guard SPF 35 PA ++ ₹475. ₹499 ₹475. Add to cart. ...
  • -6% EL Clinical's Skin Brightening Cream. ₹1,315. ...
  • -6% Pentavit Moisture Blend. ₹799. ...
  • -6% Go Tan-1000 Glutathione Tablets. ₹2,999. ...
  • -6% Double Dew Comfort moisture Cream. ₹609. ...
  • -6% Go Tan 20 Cream. ₹921. ...
  • -5% ₹939. ₹990 ₹939. ...
  • -7% Lipzlite Lip-Lightening Cream. ₹250.

Why should you avoid hydroquinone?

It's not meant for long-term use, as it might actually make the skin darker, which is a strange effect. It's recommended to take breaks from using it to prevent overuse and a side effect called exogenous ochronosis.

What is a safer alternative to hydroquinone?

New Hydroquinone Pigmentation Alternatives
  • Silymarin, derived from milk thistle, inhibits melanin production by targeting tyrosinase and is often combined with other botanical inhibitors.
  • Azelaic acid, a natural fungal derivative, brightens skin by inhibiting tyrosinase and is found in many cosmetic products.

Why is my skin darker after using hydroquinone?

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.

What happens if you mix hydrogen peroxide and hydroquinone?

The hydrogen peroxide decomposes and the hydroquinone reacts to form benzoquinone (C6H4O2). The resultant hydrogen reacts with the oxygen to produce water.

Which is better, tretinoin or hydroquinone?

Tretinoin is an anti-aging powerhouse, meaning it should have no problem dispatching fine lines and wrinkles. It does not work for deeper wrinkles. Hydroquinone doesn't work at all against fine lines and wrinkles, so stick to the collagen-boosting power of tretinoin.

What are the disadvantages of tranexamic acid on skin?

The most common potential side effects are listed below. Though reported instances are rare, tranexamic acid can cause allergic reactions, such as itching, swelling, hives, or a rash.

What is the best injection for hyperpigmentation?

Glutathione Injection for Hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation can be a frustrating skin concern, affecting confidence and quality of life for many people. Over recent years, glutathione shots have gained popularity as a solution for reducing pigmentation issues and achieving a brighter, more even skin tone.

How to prevent ochronosis when using hydroquinone?

We recommend taking a 2 month break after 3 months of application. Since hydroquinone is a photosensitive agent, It is also important to use SPF 30 or higher daily when on hydroquinone.

Why am I not seeing results from hydroquinone?

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.

How to remove pigmentation from face permanently?

How to Get Rid of Hyperpigmentation from the Face Permanently?
  1. Topical Treatments with Active Ingredients. Topical treatments remain one of the most effective ways to target pigmentation at home. ...
  2. Chemical Peels. ...
  3. Laser Treatments. ...
  4. Sun Protection. ...
  5. Natural Remedies.

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