Read
Ingredients → Hydroquinone
Hq
Topical Medication
C6H6O2
TARGETS:
Inhibits the activity of tyrosinase, the enzyme that produces melanin.
Promotes the degradation of melanosomes.
BENEFITS:
→
Melasma
→
Lentigines (i.e. sun spots, freckles, age spots)
→
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (e.g. dark spots left by acne)
2017
Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation: A comprehensive overview
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
2014
Melasma Update
Indian Dermatology Online Journal
2009
A double-blind, comparative, placebo-controlled study of the efficacy and tolerability of 4% hydroquinone as a depigmenting agent in melasma.
...
Journal of Dermatological Treatment
2006
The safety of hydroquinone
JEADV
1982
A Hydroquinone Solution in the Treatment of Melasma
International Journal of Dermatology
SIDE EFFECTS
Possible side effects include redness, dryness, peeling, itching, burning, and irritation at the application side. Hydroquinone may produce exogenous ochronosis, a blue-black discoloration of the skin. The risk of ochronosis increases with prolonged use of hydroquinone and continued sun-exposure. To avoid this, periodic breaks from hydroquinone are needed. Always make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions on use. There have been no reported incidences of cancer from topical application of hydroquinone in humans. Though health concerns are related to oral ingestion of hydroquinone, concerns over topical toxicity and carcinogenesis have been raised but not validated when the product is used correctly as directed under the supervision of an appropriately trained, licensed physician.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Contact your dermatology provider for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Recommended Posts
Prescription vs. OTC: acne treatment
A winning combination: oral + topical treatment
Read
Doxycycline: an antibiotic for acne
Read