Hydroquinone
Written By Dr. Anuj Saini
Reviewed By Dr. Shilpa GarchaLast updated 06 Mar 2020 | 07:08 AM (UTC)
Hydroquinone Uses
Hydroquinone is used in the treatment of melasma.
How Hydroquinone works
Hydroquinone is a skin lightening medication. It works by reducing the amount of a pigment (melanin) that causes darkening of skin. It does so by suppressing the activity of tyrosinase, the enzyme required to make melanin.
Common side effects of Hydroquinone
Dry skin, Itching, Skin burn, Skin peeling, Skin redness
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Expert advice for Hydroquinone
- Hydroquinone helps in lightening of hyperpigmented skin.
- It should always be used along with sun-avoidance measures, like using sunscreens (UV-A and UV-B protective) and wearing protective clothing.
- Apply a thin film to and around the affected area/lesion.
- Avoid getting it in your eyes or mouth. If this happens, rinse with water immediately.
- Apply it as per the dose and duration advised by your doctor with regular follow-up.
- Apply a very small amount of cream to check an allergic reaction. Continue with the treatment if no allergic reaction occurs in 24 hours.
- Do not apply on broken or infected areas of skin. Discontinue use if you experience irritation or allergy and consult your doctor.
Frequently asked questions for Hydroquinone
Yes. Hydroquinone is used to bleach dark patches of skin. It is available as creams to be applied externally and is safe if used as directed, for the prescribed duration by your doctor. Occasionally it may cause side effects-red, sore, itchy, inflamed skin indicating an allergic reaction. Please contact your doctor immediately if you notice any such skin reactions
No.Hydroquinone does not have a structure or effect similar to steroids
Yes.Hydroquinone is used to bleach dark patches of skin and can be used on the face. It is available as creams to be applied externally and is safe if used as directed for the prescribed duration by your doctor. Please limit sun exposures and apply sunscreens or cover the treated area with protective clothing. Even minimal exposure to sun can reverse the bleaching effect of Hydroquinone
No.Hydroquinone is available and is not a banned drug in India
Studies of Hydroquinone in animals have indicated some evidences of cancer causing potential (carcinogenicity). However, the carcinogenic effects in human are not known
No. Hydroquinone is not toxic if used as directed, for the prescribed duration by your doctor. It is available as creams and meant for external use on the skin onl
Hydroquinone bleaches/lightens dark patches of skin
It reduces the accumulation of skin pigment called melanin that causes darkening of skin. This effect of Hydroquinone is reversible (reversible depigmentation) with time and exposure to sun and therefore not permanent
No. Hydroquinone has no known effect on bleaching clothes
Hydroquinone may cause blue-black darkening of skin. This is not the normal effect of Hydroquinone. Discontinue use and contact your doctor immediately if you notice darkening of skin upon use of Hydroquinone
No. Hydroquinone is used to bleach or lighten dark patches of skin. It has no known effect in the treatment of acne
Occasionally Hydroquinone may cause side effects – redness of skin, sore, itchy, inflamed skin indicating an allergic reaction. Please contact your doctor immediately if you notice any such skin reactions.