Hydroquinone is an ingredient that is well known of its ability to bleach skin effectively and safely, even out skin tone and treat hyperpigmentation. This skin lightener is as controversial as it is effective. When it is used properly, it will deliver the best results to everyone who dreams of lightening skin or having that dewy glowing. However, when using hydroquinone, you must follow the Do’s and Don’ts mentioned in this article to avoid unwanted side effects.
When introduced in your complexion’s regimen properly, hydroquinone decreases the melanin production by inhibiting tyrosinase; an enzyme required to produce melanin. But why would you need to decrease melanin production? Because when melanin is over produced, it inflicts hyperpigmentation.
Things can go wrong (namely, a rare, unwanted side effect called exogenous ochronosis, “which is a paradoxical darkening of the treated skin,” if you don’t meticulously follow the do’s and don’ts of hydroquinone, though.Â
Louisiana-based board-certified dermatologist Mamina Turegano, M.D.
Needless to say, if you follow the Do’s and Don’ts when using hydroquinone, you will be privileged with the benefits that this melasma remedy provides. Hydroquinone has helped many users to achieve their beauty goals that they thought would never be achieved. Let’s proceed with outlining the Do’s and Don’ts when using hydroquinone.
Also read: Hydroquinone FAQ
Table of Contents
Do’s When Using Hydroquinone
– Do Wear Sunscreen Daily
Layering on an ample amount of sunscreen is essential when using hydroquinone. It is worth stressing to protect your skin diligently from harmful sun rays in all times, let alone when you are using hydroquinone.
– Do Reapply Sunscreen Every 2-3 Hours While Exposing to Sun
Always carry your sunscreen with you when you go out. You have to renew application every 2-3 hours as long as you are exposed to sun.
Don’ts When Using Hydroquinone
– Don’t Use Hydroquinone For Prolonged Period
Based on the percentage of hydroquinone in the product you are using, the period in which you should use hydroquinone should be estimated. Over the counter hydroquinone products mostly contain from 2% to 4% hydroquinone. We advise our customers at rejuvenatingsets.com, to use hydroquinone not more than one month twice daily. You can use it once a day at night alternatively. After one month period of use, if you are not satisfied with the results, you can take one month downtime before using again.
– Don’t Mix Hydroquinone with these Ingredients
Don’t mix hydroquinone with benzoyl peroxide, hydrogen peroxide or any other peroxide products. Pairing these products will not only inflict irritation and dryness, but it may also temporarily stain your skin.
Don’t Use Hydroquinone if you are Pregnant or Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or lactating mother, it is better to avoid using hydroquinone. Studies have not focused specifically on the hydroquinone absorption into blood via skin for pregnant or breastfeeding moms, however, 35% to 45% is absorbed when used by any person. There was no evidence that this percentages cause any birth defects, however, it is always better to take extra cautions when you are pregnant or breastfeeding. For alternatives, you can use tranexamic acid based products.
Tranexamic acid is permanency safe, gentle and can be used for long term.
New York City board-certified dermatologist Y. Claire Chang, M.D.
Recommended Products
Over The Counter Hydroquinone Creams
1- SkinLite 2% Hydroquinone + 0.025% Tretinoin + 0.1% Mometasone Furoate Cream
This made in India cream targets, treats and prevents pigmentation and damaged skin. The potent cream combines the goodness of Hydroquinone and Tretinoin. The combination helps lessen the appearance of dark spots. As a result, the skin will have a more even and unified look.
Why we love it:
Contains 2% Hydroquinone
Prevents hyperpigmentation
Price: $13.13
2- MelaCare 2% Hydroquinone + 0.025% Tretinoin + 0.1% Mometasone Furoate Cream
MelaCare cream is almost the same as SkinLite cream but produced by a different company. It is also made in India and delivers the same benefits to the skin. As per our experience with our customers, some of them prefer SkinLite cream as it suits their skin and others prefer Melacare cream.
Why we love it:
Contains 2% Hydroquinone
Prevents hyperpigmentation
Price: $11.49
3- 4% Hydroquinone Avoquin Cream
4% Hydroquinone Avoquin Cream is formulated to fight hyperpigmentation that attacks skin. When your skin has dark spots or got discoloration for any reason, this cream will even out your skin tone. Also, it will lighten your skin. Thanks to the 4% hydroquinone in this cream, it can achieve results in one month.
Why we love it:
Contains 4% Hydroquinone
Prevents hyperpigmentation
Price: $22.79
4- 4% Hydroquinone HiQuin Cream
The key ingredient in HiQuin cream is hydroquinone. This cream acts the same way as Avoquin cream. It contains 4% hydroquinone. It is ideal for moderate and severe cases of hyperpigmentation. Say Goodbye to your dark spots and get your skin evened out within a month. You will notice the difference within 7 days though. Get the dewy glowing that you want and enjoy a remarkable original makeover.
Why we love it:
Contains 4% Hydroquinone
Prevents hyperpigmentation
Price: $13.13
Conclusion
Hydroquinone is well known of its ability to bleach skin and treat hyperpigmentation. There are several hydroquinone products available over the counter. We recommended above the best sellers on our website. Follow the Do’s and Don’ts when you use hydroquinone to avoid unnecessary side effects and enjoy the best results for your skin.
