Hydroquinone is used to lighten the dark patches of skin (also called hyperpigmentation, melasma, "liver spots," "age spots," freckles) caused by pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone medicine, or injury to the skin. This medicine works by blocking the process in the skin that leads to discoloration.

How long does it take to see results from hydroquinone?

It takes about four weeks on average for the ingredient to take effect. It may take several months of consistent use before you see full results. If you don't see any improvements within three months of OTC use, talk to your dermatologist.

Does hydroquinone lighten skin permanently?

Hydroquinone does not permanently lighten skin. Still considered the go-to spot lightener in the U.S., many dermatologists recommend hydroquinone to: Treat any type of hyperpigmentation, from the post inflammatory hyperpigmentation left behind after an acne breakout to age and sun spots.

Is hydroquinone safe to use on the face?

If you're facing any severe adverse effects like itching and other irritation then avoid using it and consult with your doctor. If you're not facing any of the side effects continue using it then you're safe to use it. Take a small amount of the product and apply it across the entire area of the skin.

Does hydroquinone darken skin?

“There's also a phenomenon called ochronosis, or increased pigmentation/darkening of the skin that is caused by hydroquinone in high concentrations and with long-term use,” she explains. “It is safe to use in 2% to 4% formulations twice a day for 12 weeks max.

Is hydroquinone safe? Q&A with a dermatologist| Dr Dray

Does hydroquinone give permanent results?

There may be an irritant dermatitis about which the patient should be warned. Azelaic acid may be used twice daily for 6 months and is tolerated very well, with very few side-effects. More recent therapy for melasma has included glycolic acid peels, tretinoin peels and laser treatment.

Does hydroquinone permanently remove dark spots?

The drug works by inhibiting new epidermal melanin production. Hydroquinone has been proven to be safe and effective for treating hyperpigmentation in patients aged 13 years and older when used as directed.

Can hydroquinone make dark spots worse?

Hydroquinone may cause local skin irritation, however, and thereby leading to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, making the skin pigmentation worse.

What are side effects of hydroquinone?

• Mild skin irritation and sensitization (burning, stinging)
• Dermatitis.
• Dryness.
• Redness.
• Inflammatory reaction.

Will hydroquinone fade acne scars?

According to several of the derms we spoke with, skin-lightening agent hydroquinone is one of the most effective ingredients for fading acne scars.

Is hydroquinone a bleaching cream?

Hydroquinone is a topical skin-bleaching agent used in the cosmetic treatment of hyperpigmented skin conditions. The effect of skin lightening caused by hydroquinone is reversible when exposed to sunlight and therefore requires regular use until desired results are achieved.

How many shades does hydroquinone lighten?

Hydroquinone skin lightening formula can brighten skin by up to 7 shades. The medical-grade ultra brightening skin lightener is formulated with the highest concentration available hydroquinone. This provides long-lasting fading of dark spots caused by hyperpigmentation and melasma.

Is benoquin a bleaching cream?

Benoquin Cream 20% is a potent depigmenting agent, not a mild cosmetic bleach. Do not use except for final depigmentation in extensive vitiligo.

Can you use hydroquinone with vitamin C?

Hydroquinone combination formulations. In this regard, consumers can readily find products that combine hydroquinone with various ingredients such as retinoic acid, glycolic acid, vitamin C, and topical steroids. However, prolonged use of such products can worsen pigmentation and create additional issues.

Is hydroquinone a steroid?

Fluocinolone is a corticosteroid (steroid medicine), hydroquinone is a bleaching agent, and tretinoin is a retinoid (related to vitamin A). This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

What can I use to permanently whiten my skin?

1. Microdermabrasion. Looking for a treatment, which will make you get rid of those ugly dark spots? ...
2. Whitening Serum. ...
3. Dermabrasion. ...
4. Arbutin. ...
5. Retinol. ...
6. Chemical peels. ...
7. Vitamin C. ...
8. Whitening creams.

Does hydroquinone really work?

In short, hydroquinone is scientifically proven to reduce the amount of skin discoloration caused by melasma. For most people, it produces a noticeable improvement after eight to 12 weeks of consistent use, although some people might see improvements in their skin sooner.

Does hyperpigmentation get darker before it fades?

In dark skin tones, the greater concentration of melanin in the skin means hyperpigmentation is more common and takes longer to fade. ... This increases the concentration of melanin in the epidermis, creating a temporary darkening of the spots. So, the darkening is what you want to see.

Which lightening cream is the best?

• Olay natural white glowing fairness cream. ...
• ORGANIC HARVEST skin Lightening Cream<br> ...
• Garnier Skin Naturals Light Complete Serum Cream. ...
• Lotus Herbals Whiteglow Skin Whitening & Brightening Gel Creme. ...
• L'Oreal Paris Skin Perfect Anti-Imperfections + Whitening Cream. ...
• Pond's White Beauty Daily Spot-Less Lightening Cream.

Why is my dark spot getting darker?

The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays are responsible for most dark skin spots. The UV rays trigger excess melanin production, causing new areas of hyperpigmentation and darkening existing areas.

Can pigmentation be cured permanently?

Hyperpigmentation is a harmless skin condition that people can get rid of using removal techniques such as cosmetic treatments, creams, and home remedies. If a person notices other symptoms alongside hyperpigmentation, they should seek advice from their doctor.

Can you use hydroquinone on scars?

“Hydroquinone is a topical skin treatment for melasma, freckles, age and sun spots, and even acne scars,” says cosmetic and plastic surgeon David Shafer. “Used in combination with other acne products such as Retin-A, hydroquinone can help dramatically improve skin complexion.”

What is best for dark spots on face?

Dermatologist Erica Stevens of Westlake Dermatology says the best brightening ingredients for dark skin tones are hydroquinone (used sparingly), retinol, and azelaic acid. She explains that hydroquinone is the "gold standard" that is available over the counter or prescription from your dermatologist.

What is the best treatment for brown spots on face?

• Medications. Applying prescription bleaching creams (hydroquinone) alone or with retinoids (tretinoin) and a mild steroid might gradually fade the spots over several months. ...
• Laser and intense pulsed light. ...
• Freezing (cryotherapy). ...
• Dermabrasion. ...
• Microdermabrasion. ...
• Chemical peel.

How do I get rid of dark spots on my face fast?

Apply fresh aloe vera gel on the dark spots before bedtime. Rinse the face in the morning with warm water. Licorice extract: Glabridin in licorice inhibits the activity of melanocytes, therefore helping in skin lightening. Creams containing licorice are available as over-the-counter (OTC) topical products.