Hydroquinone on skin. Hydroquinone for Skin Lightening: Uses, Safety, and Alternatives
How does hydroquinone work to lighten skin. What are the main uses of hydroquinone for hyperpigmentation. Is hydroquinone safe for all skin types. What are some effective alternatives to hydroquinone for skin lightening.
What is Hydroquinone and How Does it Work?
Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent that works by decreasing the production of melanin in the skin. Melanin is the pigment responsible for skin color, so by reducing melanin, hydroquinone can help lighten areas of hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone.
Specifically, hydroquinone inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, which is necessary for melanin production. It also increases the breakdown of melanosomes, the cellular structures that contain melanin. Through these mechanisms, hydroquinone gradually fades dark spots and patches on the skin over time with consistent use.
How Long Does Hydroquinone Take to Work?
Hydroquinone typically takes about 4-8 weeks of regular use to produce noticeable lightening effects. For maximum results, it may need to be used for 3-6 months. Patience and consistency are key when using hydroquinone products.
Main Uses and Benefits of Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is primarily used to treat various forms of hyperpigmentation, including:
- Melasma (dark patches often triggered by hormones)
- Age spots and sun spots
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne or other skin conditions
- Freckles
- Uneven skin tone
By fading these types of discoloration, hydroquinone can help create a more uniform complexion. It’s important to note that while hydroquinone can fade existing dark spots, it does not prevent new hyperpigmentation from forming. Sun protection is crucial when using hydroquinone to maintain results.
Can Hydroquinone Treat Active Acne or Inflammation?
Hydroquinone is not effective for treating active acne breakouts or inflammation. It only works on existing hyperpigmentation left behind after acne or other inflammatory skin conditions have healed. For active acne, ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide are more appropriate.
Safety and Side Effects of Hydroquinone
The safety profile of hydroquinone has been a subject of debate over the years. While the FDA currently recognizes it as safe and effective when used as directed, there are some potential side effects and precautions to be aware of:
Common Side Effects
- Skin irritation
- Dryness
- Redness
- Itching
- Increased sun sensitivity
These side effects are usually mild and often subside as the skin adjusts to the product. However, if irritation persists or worsens, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.
Rare but Serious Side Effects
In rare cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as:
- Ochronosis (blue-black skin discoloration)
- Contact dermatitis
- Exogenous ochronosis (paradoxical skin darkening)
These severe reactions are more likely to occur with long-term use of high-concentration hydroquinone or when using products from unregulated sources. Always purchase hydroquinone products from reputable retailers and follow usage instructions carefully.
Is Hydroquinone Suitable for All Skin Types?
While hydroquinone can be effective for many people, it’s not suitable for everyone. Skin type and tone play a significant role in determining whether hydroquinone is appropriate:
Fair to Medium Skin Tones
Hydroquinone tends to work best on fair to medium skin tones. These skin types are less likely to experience adverse reactions and typically see good results with consistent use.
Dark Skin Tones
People with darker skin tones should use hydroquinone with caution. There’s a higher risk of paradoxical hyperpigmentation or ochronosis in darker skin. If you have a deep skin tone, consult a dermatologist before using hydroquinone to determine if it’s appropriate for your skin.
Sensitive or Dry Skin
Those with sensitive or dry skin may experience increased irritation from hydroquinone. Starting with a lower concentration and gradually increasing usage can help minimize irritation. Using a moisturizer in conjunction with hydroquinone can also help combat dryness.
How to Use Hydroquinone Safely and Effectively
To maximize the benefits of hydroquinone while minimizing potential side effects, follow these guidelines:
- Perform a patch test before full application to check for any adverse reactions.
- Start with a low concentration (2% for over-the-counter products) and use every other day initially.
- Apply a thin layer to affected areas only, avoiding surrounding skin.
- Use sunscreen daily, as hydroquinone increases sun sensitivity.
- Limit treatment to 3-6 months at a time to prevent overuse.
- Take periodic breaks from hydroquinone use to allow skin to normalize.
- Consult a dermatologist if you don’t see improvement after 3 months of consistent use.
Remember, more is not always better with hydroquinone. Using too high a concentration or applying too frequently can increase the risk of side effects without improving results.
Over-the-Counter vs. Prescription Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is available in both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription formulations. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right option for your needs:
Over-the-Counter Hydroquinone
OTC hydroquinone products typically contain 2% concentration. These are suitable for mild hyperpigmentation and can be purchased without a prescription. Popular OTC brands include:
- Ambi Fade Cream
- Murad Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum
- Paula’s Choice Resist Triple-Action Dark Spot Eraser
Prescription Hydroquinone
Prescription formulations contain higher concentrations of hydroquinone, usually 4% or more. These are more potent and are used for stubborn or severe hyperpigmentation. They require a doctor’s prescription and should be used under medical supervision.
If OTC products aren’t producing desired results after several months of use, consult a dermatologist about prescription options.
Alternatives to Hydroquinone for Skin Lightening
For those who prefer to avoid hydroquinone or find it unsuitable for their skin, several alternative skin-lightening ingredients are available:
Kojic Acid
Derived from certain species of fungi, kojic acid inhibits tyrosinase production, effectively reducing melanin formation. It’s gentler than hydroquinone but may take longer to produce results.
Vitamin C
A potent antioxidant, vitamin C not only helps fade dark spots but also protects against future sun damage. It’s suitable for all skin types and can be used long-term without side effects.
Niacinamide
Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide helps regulate melanin production and improve overall skin tone. It’s well-tolerated by most skin types and has additional benefits like improving skin barrier function.
Alpha Arbutin
A natural derivative of hydroquinone, alpha arbutin provides similar lightening effects with a lower risk of irritation. It’s suitable for sensitive skin and darker skin tones.
Azelaic Acid
This gentle acid not only helps fade hyperpigmentation but also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for acne-prone skin.
When choosing an alternative to hydroquinone, consider your specific skin concerns, skin type, and any sensitivities. It may take some trial and error to find the most effective ingredient or combination of ingredients for your skin.
Combining Hydroquinone with Other Skincare Ingredients
Hydroquinone can be combined with certain skincare ingredients to enhance its effectiveness or address multiple skin concerns simultaneously. However, it’s important to introduce new combinations carefully to avoid irritation.
Hydroquinone and Retinoids
Combining hydroquinone with retinoids like tretinoin can enhance skin lightening effects and improve overall skin texture. This combination is often used in prescription formulations for treating melasma.
Hydroquinone and Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid can help improve hydroquinone penetration and provide additional exfoliation benefits. This combination can be particularly effective for treating sun damage and age spots.
Hydroquinone and Vitamin C
While both are effective skin lighteners, hydroquinone and vitamin C should not be used simultaneously as they can interact and reduce each other’s effectiveness. Instead, use vitamin C in the morning and hydroquinone at night.
When combining hydroquinone with other active ingredients, start slowly and monitor your skin’s response. If you experience increased irritation, reduce the frequency of use or consult a dermatologist.
In conclusion, hydroquinone remains a potent and widely used skin-lightening agent, despite some controversy surrounding its use. When used correctly and under appropriate supervision, it can effectively treat various forms of hyperpigmentation. However, it’s crucial to be aware of potential side effects and limitations, especially for those with darker skin tones or sensitive skin. For those who prefer to avoid hydroquinone, numerous alternative skin-lightening ingredients can provide similar benefits with potentially fewer risks. As with any skincare regimen, consistency, patience, and proper sun protection are key to achieving and maintaining desired results.
Uses, Safety, Side Effects, OTC Products, Alternatives
Hydroquinone: Uses, Safety, Side Effects, OTC Products, Alternatives
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D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT — By Kristeen Cherney — Updated on February 15, 2022
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Was this helpful?
What is hydroquinone?
Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent.
It bleaches the skin, which can be helpful when treating different forms of hyperpigmentation.
Historically, there’s been some back-and-forth on the safety of hydroquinone. In 1982, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recognized the ingredient as safe and effective.
Several years later, concerns about safety prompted retailers to pull hydroquinone from the market. The FDA went on to discover that many of the products in question contained contaminants like mercury. They established that these contaminants were behind reports of adverse effects.
Read on to learn more about how it works, who might benefit from use, products to try, and more.
Hydroquinone bleaches your skin by decreasing the number of melanocytes present. Melanocytes make melanin, which is what produces your skin tone.
In cases of hyperpigmentation, more melanin is present due to an increase in melanocyte production. By controlling these melanocytes, your skin will become more evenly toned over time.
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. They may be able to recommend a prescription-strength formula better suited to your needs.
Hydroquinone is used to treat skin conditions related to hyperpigmentation. This includes:
- acne scars
- age spots
- freckles
- melasma
- post-inflammatory marks from psoriasis and eczema
Although hydroquinone can help fade red or brown spots that have lingered, it won’t help with active inflammation. For example, the ingredient can help minimize acne scarring, but it won’t have an effect on redness from active breakouts.
Although hydroquinone is generally well-tolerated, there are a few exceptions.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may find that hydroquinone causes further dryness or irritation.
This usually tapers off as your skin adjusts to the ingredient.
People who have normal or oily skin are less likely to experience these side effects.
The ingredient tends to work best on fair skin tones. If you have a medium-to-dark skin tone, talk with your dermatologist before use. Hydroquinone may actually worsen hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones.
Consistency is key to treating hyperpigmentation. You’ll want to use this ingredient every day for maximum results. Follow all product instructions carefully.
It’s important to do a patch test before your first full application. This will allow you to determine how your skin will react and whether it results in unwelcome side effects.
To do this:
- Rub a small amount of the product into the inside of your forearm.
- Cover the area with a bandage.
- Wash your hands to prevent the product from staining your clothes or other materials.
- Wait 24 hours.
- Discontinue use if you experience severe itching or other irritation during this time.
If you don’t experience any side effects, you should be able to safely add it to your skin care routine. You should apply it after cleansing and toning, but before your moisturizer.
Take just a small amount of the product and apply it evenly across the entire area of skin. Gently massage into your skin until it’s completely absorbed.
Make sure you wash your hands after use — this will prevent the product from affecting other areas of skin or staining your clothes and other materials.
You should also wear sunscreen while using this ingredient. Sun exposure can not only make hyperpigmentation worse, but also reverse the effects of your hydroquinone treatment.
Sunscreen is usually the last step of a skin care routine. Be sure to reapply as needed throughout the day.
While consistency is important for maximum results, you shouldn’t use it for long periods of time. If you don’t see any improvement after three months, discontinue use.
If you do see improvement, you can use the product for up to four months, and then begin to taper off use.
You shouldn’t use it for more than five months at a time.
If you want to begin using the product again, wait two to three months before you resume use.
To date, hydroquinone is deemed safe in the United States. There isn’t any clinical evidence currently to suggest that hydroquinone is harmful to humans.
However, minor side effects are still possible. It may cause a temporary uptick in redness or dryness at first, especially if you have sensitive skin. These effects should fade as your skin becomes used to the product.
In rare cases, hydroquinone has caused a condition called ochronosis. It’s marked by papules and bluish-black pigmentation. This can occur after prolonged daily use. As such, you shouldn’t use products with this ingredient for more than five months at a time.
If you’d rather not use a chemical agent like hydroquinone, natural skin-lightening products are available.
These typically include one or more of the following:
- Antioxidants. Vitamins A and C are commonly used in anti-aging products to brighten the skin and improve your overall tone. When used over time, antioxidants may also help lighten areas of hyperpigmentation.
- Plant-based acids. Contrary to popular belief, acidic compounds are not always manufactured. Many acids in skincare products are actually derived from plants. For hyperpigmentation, you might try kojic or ellagic acids. These work by slowing down your skin’s melanin production.
- Vitamin B-3. Commonly labeled as “niacinamide,” this ingredient has the potential to prevent darker areas of pigmentation from rising to the surface of your skin.
Vitamins A and C are commonly used in anti-aging products to brighten the skin and improve your overall tone. When used over time, antioxidants may also help lighten areas of hyperpigmentation.Hyperpigmentation can be a difficult condition to treat. Although hydroquinone may help lighten your skin, this ingredient isn’t appropriate for everyone.
You should check with your dermatologist before use, especially if you have sensitive skin or a medium-to-dark skin tone. They can advise you on how you should use this ingredient, if at all.
They can also recommend alternative skin-lightening treatments, including natural products and chemical peels.
Last medically reviewed on April 16, 2018
How we reviewed this article:
Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.
- American Academy of Dermatology. (2014). Dermatologist shines light on natural ingredients used in new topical treatments for hyperpigmentation [Press release].
aad.org/media/news-releases/dermatologist-shines-light-on-natural-ingredients-used-in-new-topical-treatments-for-hyperpigmentation - Gandhi V, et al. (2012). Exogenous ochronosis after prolonged use of topical hydroquinone (2%) in a 50-year-old Indian female. DOI:
10.4103/0019-5154.100498 - Hydroquinone. (n.d.).
aocd.org/?page=Hydroquinone - Kamakshi R. (2012). Fairness via formulations: A review of cosmetic-lightening ingredients.
researchgate.net/publication/223969079_Fairness_via_formulations_A_review_of_cosmetic_skin-lightening_ingredients - McGregor D. (2007). Hydroquinone: An evaluation of the human risks from its carcinogenic and mutagenic properties [Abstract].
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18027166 - Rulemaking history for OTC skin bleaching drug products. (2017).
fda.gov/Drugs/DevelopmentApprovalProcess/DevelopmentResources/Over-the-CounterOTCDrugs/StatusofOTCRulemakings/ucm072117.htm - Understanding skin care product ingredients. (2015).
my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10980-understanding-the-ingredients-in-skin-care-products
(n.d.).Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
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Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.
D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT — By Kristeen Cherney — Updated on February 15, 2022
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Uses, Safety, Side Effects, OTC Products, Alternatives
Hydroquinone: Uses, Safety, Side Effects, OTC Products, Alternatives
- Health Conditions
- Featured
- Breast Cancer
- IBD
- Migraine
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
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- Men’s Health
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- Healthy Harvest
- No More Silence
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- Wellness Topics
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- Mindful Eating
- Sugar Savvy
- Move Your Body
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- Dermatologists
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Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.
D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT — By Kristeen Cherney — Updated on February 15, 2022
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.
Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:
- Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
- Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
- Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.
Read more about our vetting process.
Was this helpful?
What is hydroquinone?
Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent.
It bleaches the skin, which can be helpful when treating different forms of hyperpigmentation.
Historically, there’s been some back-and-forth on the safety of hydroquinone. In 1982, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recognized the ingredient as safe and effective.
Several years later, concerns about safety prompted retailers to pull hydroquinone from the market. The FDA went on to discover that many of the products in question contained contaminants like mercury. They established that these contaminants were behind reports of adverse effects.
Read on to learn more about how it works, who might benefit from use, products to try, and more.
Hydroquinone bleaches your skin by decreasing the number of melanocytes present. Melanocytes make melanin, which is what produces your skin tone.
In cases of hyperpigmentation, more melanin is present due to an increase in melanocyte production. By controlling these melanocytes, your skin will become more evenly toned over time.
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. They may be able to recommend a prescription-strength formula better suited to your needs.
Hydroquinone is used to treat skin conditions related to hyperpigmentation. This includes:
- acne scars
- age spots
- freckles
- melasma
- post-inflammatory marks from psoriasis and eczema
Although hydroquinone can help fade red or brown spots that have lingered, it won’t help with active inflammation. For example, the ingredient can help minimize acne scarring, but it won’t have an effect on redness from active breakouts.
Although hydroquinone is generally well-tolerated, there are a few exceptions.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may find that hydroquinone causes further dryness or irritation.
This usually tapers off as your skin adjusts to the ingredient.
People who have normal or oily skin are less likely to experience these side effects.
The ingredient tends to work best on fair skin tones. If you have a medium-to-dark skin tone, talk with your dermatologist before use. Hydroquinone may actually worsen hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones.
Consistency is key to treating hyperpigmentation. You’ll want to use this ingredient every day for maximum results. Follow all product instructions carefully.
It’s important to do a patch test before your first full application. This will allow you to determine how your skin will react and whether it results in unwelcome side effects.
To do this:
- Rub a small amount of the product into the inside of your forearm.
- Cover the area with a bandage.
- Wash your hands to prevent the product from staining your clothes or other materials.
- Wait 24 hours.
- Discontinue use if you experience severe itching or other irritation during this time.
If you don’t experience any side effects, you should be able to safely add it to your skin care routine. You should apply it after cleansing and toning, but before your moisturizer.
Take just a small amount of the product and apply it evenly across the entire area of skin. Gently massage into your skin until it’s completely absorbed.
Make sure you wash your hands after use — this will prevent the product from affecting other areas of skin or staining your clothes and other materials.
You should also wear sunscreen while using this ingredient. Sun exposure can not only make hyperpigmentation worse, but also reverse the effects of your hydroquinone treatment.
Sunscreen is usually the last step of a skin care routine. Be sure to reapply as needed throughout the day.
While consistency is important for maximum results, you shouldn’t use it for long periods of time. If you don’t see any improvement after three months, discontinue use.
If you do see improvement, you can use the product for up to four months, and then begin to taper off use.
You shouldn’t use it for more than five months at a time.
If you want to begin using the product again, wait two to three months before you resume use.
To date, hydroquinone is deemed safe in the United States. There isn’t any clinical evidence currently to suggest that hydroquinone is harmful to humans.
However, minor side effects are still possible. It may cause a temporary uptick in redness or dryness at first, especially if you have sensitive skin. These effects should fade as your skin becomes used to the product.
In rare cases, hydroquinone has caused a condition called ochronosis. It’s marked by papules and bluish-black pigmentation. This can occur after prolonged daily use. As such, you shouldn’t use products with this ingredient for more than five months at a time.
If you’d rather not use a chemical agent like hydroquinone, natural skin-lightening products are available.
These typically include one or more of the following:
- Antioxidants. Vitamins A and C are commonly used in anti-aging products to brighten the skin and improve your overall tone. When used over time, antioxidants may also help lighten areas of hyperpigmentation.
- Plant-based acids. Contrary to popular belief, acidic compounds are not always manufactured. Many acids in skincare products are actually derived from plants. For hyperpigmentation, you might try kojic or ellagic acids. These work by slowing down your skin’s melanin production.
- Vitamin B-3. Commonly labeled as “niacinamide,” this ingredient has the potential to prevent darker areas of pigmentation from rising to the surface of your skin.
Vitamins A and C are commonly used in anti-aging products to brighten the skin and improve your overall tone. When used over time, antioxidants may also help lighten areas of hyperpigmentation.Hyperpigmentation can be a difficult condition to treat. Although hydroquinone may help lighten your skin, this ingredient isn’t appropriate for everyone.
You should check with your dermatologist before use, especially if you have sensitive skin or a medium-to-dark skin tone. They can advise you on how you should use this ingredient, if at all.
They can also recommend alternative skin-lightening treatments, including natural products and chemical peels.
Last medically reviewed on April 16, 2018
How we reviewed this article:
Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.
- American Academy of Dermatology. (2014). Dermatologist shines light on natural ingredients used in new topical treatments for hyperpigmentation [Press release].
aad.org/media/news-releases/dermatologist-shines-light-on-natural-ingredients-used-in-new-topical-treatments-for-hyperpigmentation - Gandhi V, et al. (2012). Exogenous ochronosis after prolonged use of topical hydroquinone (2%) in a 50-year-old Indian female. DOI:
10.4103/0019-5154.100498 - Hydroquinone. (n.d.).
aocd.org/?page=Hydroquinone - Kamakshi R. (2012). Fairness via formulations: A review of cosmetic-lightening ingredients.
researchgate.net/publication/223969079_Fairness_via_formulations_A_review_of_cosmetic_skin-lightening_ingredients - McGregor D. (2007). Hydroquinone: An evaluation of the human risks from its carcinogenic and mutagenic properties [Abstract].
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18027166 - Rulemaking history for OTC skin bleaching drug products. (2017).
fda.gov/Drugs/DevelopmentApprovalProcess/DevelopmentResources/Over-the-CounterOTCDrugs/StatusofOTCRulemakings/ucm072117.htm - Understanding skin care product ingredients. (2015).
my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10980-understanding-the-ingredients-in-skin-care-products
(n.d.).Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
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Feb 15, 2022
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Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.
D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT — By Kristeen Cherney — Updated on February 15, 2022
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Hydroquinone: good or bad
Know about the effectiveness of hydroquinone in skin whitening, but can’t find a cream with it? Hydroquinone is practically not used anymore in cosmetology and it is possible to purchase a product with its content only in unofficial stores and unfamiliar firms.
Why hydroquinone is canceled in cosmetology and what danger it poses, read below.
CONTENT
- How hydroquinone works
- Side effects of hydroquinone
- cancer risk
- skin irritation
- exogenous orochnosis
- white spots
- premature aging
- Hydroquinone use in different countries
- How to effectively lighten pigmentation
How hydroquinone works
This is a dihydric phenol, the molecules are very small and active.
Easily penetrates into the deep layers of the skin.
Formerly used in medicine as an antiseptic and to reduce fever. But it was completely banned and withdrawn from medical use due to high toxicity.
After that it began to be used in cosmetology as a whitening ingredient. Its principle of operation is effective blockade of the enzyme tyrosinase . Violating the synthesis of melanin, hydroquinone prevents the staining of keratinocytes with pigment.
Hydroquinone quickly gained popularity due to its high potency. But soon a number of side effects were revealed when using it.
CONSULTANCY
Free online consultations are available leading cosmetologists of the Russian representative office of DermaQuest / Circadia.
Side effects of hydroquinone
CANCER RISK
There is human evidence that hydroquinone is one of the causes of human leukemia .
- In another case, a patient developed skin lymphocytoma after 1 month of topical application of 4% hydroquinone for the treatment of melasma.
- Also recorded cases of development of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin on the background of the use of hydroquinone for several years.
- Another article discusses the role of hydroquinone in the development of mutations in the p53 gene, which is responsible for protecting the body from tumors.
Particularly dangerous use near the eyes – development of eye pigmentation and damage to the cornea was detected.
SKIN IRRITATION
Irritant and common cause contact dermatitis.
Due to the use of hydroquinone, the skin is thinned, has poor regeneration and increased sensitivity. An inadequate response to professional procedures is likely, as well as the risk of sunburn and cell gene mutations.
EXOGENOUS ORCHNOSE
This is the appearance of pigmentation foci on the background of long-term use of hydroquinone. Erythema, papules, and foci of colloidal degeneration may also appear on sun-exposed skin.
Hydroquinone’s reverse action mechanism: By inhibiting tyrosinase, hydroquinone blocks the conversion of phenylalanine to tyrosine. The result – the decomposition product – homogenized acid – is deposited in the zone of long-term use of hydroquinone in the form of gray-blue spots.
PHOTO of orochnosis
WHITE SPOT (hypopigmentation)
Hydroquinone, when used for more than 8 weeks, leads to the death of melanocytes, having a cytotoxic effect. The opposite result occurs: white, discolored spots appear in place of the former age spots, as in vitiligo. The skin becomes defenseless against solar exposure, because. incapable of tanning.
PREMATURE AGING
Hydroquinone breaks down skin collagen, causing early wrinkles, thinning and aging of the skin.
the skin becomes parchment-like with hypersensitivity.
And if you still use hydroquinone …
If you want to try the use of hydroquinone, then you should strictly adhere to the recommended course – no more than 4 weeks of use. Repeat not earlier than in a month.
The use of hydroquinone in different countries
Surprisingly, but the topical use of hydroquinone still exists officially in a number of countries:
In countries with a high standard of living, hydroquinone is completely banned, based on official studies on the harm and toxicity of exposure to the skin.
In 2008, the FDA classified hydroquinone as a drug of questionable efficacy.
Important! Before performing a professional procedure, the beautician must be informed about the use of products with hydroquinone, because.
such skin has increased sensitivity, thinned epidermis and poor regenerative abilities. The restoration of the skin and its reaction to the procedure may come as a surprise to the specialist if the information has been hidden. How to effectively lighten pigmentation
In modern cosmetology, there are a large number of whitening ingredients without toxic effects. But their effectiveness is not always comparable with hydroquinone.
The main secret is the choice of product with combination of brightening ingredients .
The most effective and safe to use are:
- Retinoids – naturally normalize the work of pigment cells, leading to lightening of pigmentation.
- Hexylresorcinol – a tyrosinase inhibitor, as part of the patented Synovea® HR complex, whitening efficiency is 4 times higher than that of 2% hydroquinone!
PHOTO OF SERUM
Included in Brighting Retinol Serum DermaQuest – powerful whitening of all types age spots, incl.
deep and long standing. The composition of the serum: hexylresorcinol, retinol 2% and Bakuchiol (Vitamin A imitator that enhances the work of retinol).
Skin hyperpigmentation: causes and treatment
5 minutes. reading
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Causes and pathogens
What causes hyperpigmentation and dark spots?
Hyperpigmentation is caused by overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives our skin, hair and eyes their natural color in certain areas of the skin. This excess can be caused by a number of factors, but the main ones are related to the sun. Other factors include genetics, age, hormonal influences, skin damage or inflammation.
Signs and symptoms
What is hyperpigmentation? Why does it arise?
Hyperpigmentation occurs when melanin is produced in excess in certain areas of the skin.
Hyperpigmentation appears as flat dark spots on the skin, ranging from light brown to black, and can vary in size and shape. There are many types of hyperpigmentation, but these are the most common.
Pigmented spots, such as age spots, often appear when exposed to sunlight. For this reason, they appear mainly on those parts of the body that are often open (face and hands). As a rule, they look like small darkened areas of the skin.
Melasma or chloasma is often referred to as the “mask of pregnancy” because it occurs in 90% of pregnant women. It occurs as a result of hormones or birth control pills, causing irregularly shaped dark spots on the face or arms, which can be quite large.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs when a skin injury or injury heals and leaves behind a smooth patch of discoloration. Typical for people with acne-prone skin. It can also be caused by the effects of cosmetic procedures such as dermabrasion, laser treatment, and chemical peels.
There are also other factors that can lead to dark spots on the skin (warts, scars, moles, solar or age-related keratosis and skin cancer), but they are not considered forms of hyperpigmentation. Contact your dermatologist or pharmacist if your dark spots start to bleed, itch, or change in size or color, or if new spots appear.
Factors Causing Hyperpigmentation
The main factors causing hyperpigmentation
Sun exposure is the main cause of hyperpigmentation, since it is the sun’s rays that cause the production of melanin. Melanin acts as the skin’s natural sunscreen, protecting it from harmful UV rays. Sunburn is the result of such a protective process, however, with excessive exposure to the sun, disturbances can occur in it, leading to hyperpigmentation.
When exposed to sunlight, dark spots turn into freckles, age spots or melasma, becoming even darker and more visible.
Limiting the amount of time you spend in the sun, wearing protective clothing and using broad-spectrum sunscreens with high UV protection can help reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation and also prevent existing dark spots from worsening.
Influence of hormones is the main cause of the development of such types of hyperpigmentation as melasma or chloasma. This type is especially common among women, as the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone are thought to stimulate excess melanin production.
Melasma is primarily caused by the action of female hormones. So many pregnant women suffer from it that the disease is also known as the “pregnancy mask”. It is more common in people with darker skin.
Hyperpigmentation is also a symptom of certain diseases, such as autoimmune and gastrointestinal diseases, metabolic disorders and vitamin deficiencies. Hyperpigmentation can also be a side effect of hormone therapy, chemotherapy, antibiotics, antimalarials, anticonvulsants, and other medications.
Photocontact dermatitis caused by henna dyes or tattooing may result in residual hyperpigmentation.
Some professions and occupations lead to hyperpigmentation through the associated risks of sun or chemical burns.
The people most at risk due to their line of work are those who work with tar and tar, as well as gardeners, bakers and perfume factory workers.
Solutions
How can hyperpigmentation be helped?
Dermatological anti-pigmentation treatments
Chemical peel involves the application of an acid solution to the face, hands or feet to remove the superficial layers of the skin. These chemicals are applied to the skin to cause blisters and eventually peel off the surface layer of the skin, revealing new and evenly pigmented skin underneath.
Laser therapy has the same effect, but is usually more effective because the dermatologist has more control over the intensity of the treatment. It involves “burning out” the affected areas of the skin using high-energy light. In its simplest form, this procedure is performed only on the epidermis (superficial layer of the skin), while more intensive treatments penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin.
These dermatological treatments can be very effective against hyperpigmentation, but they are expensive and involve a lot of intervention. Their ability to irritate, inflame, or even burn the skin can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in people with dark skin.
Alternative methods
Recently, a large number of cosmetic products aimed at reducing hyperpigmentation have appeared. Most of them contain an active ingredient that helps reduce the production of melanin and reduce the number of age spots.
– Until recently, hydroquinone was the most powerful active ingredient for the treatment of hyperpigmentation. It is still available in some over-the-counter drugs in the US, but only in low concentrations (<2%). In large quantities, hydroquinone can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation as it is a skin irritant.
– Arbutin is a natural source of hydroquinone and one of the key ingredients used in skin whitening products in Asia.
It is not as strong or effective as commercially available hydroquinone, but there are risks associated with its use
– Kojic acid is a by-product of the fermentation process used to make Japanese sake rice wine. It is considered a relatively safe and natural remedy and a rather weak inhibitor of melanin production. It has been banned in many countries.
– Vitamin C derivatives have also shown relative efficacy against hyperpigmentation. They are often used in combination with other active ingredients.
– Retinoic acid derivatives have also shown to be relatively effective in the treatment of hyperpigmentation. But they can also irritate the skin and make it more sensitive to the sun, which in turn increases hyperpigmentation. Scientists’ concerns about the relationship between retinoids and birth defects also means that the use of these drugs is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
– Azelaic acid also indirectly affects melanin production and may reduce hyperpigmentation.