Hydroquinone is an agent that lightens the skin. It helps treat various forms of hyperpigmentation since it can bleach the skin. It can be challenging to treat hyperpigmentation but this is one viable option. There are several skin conditions that have the potential to benefit from using a Hydroquinone prescription.

These are conditions all related to hyperpigmentation including melasma, freckles, age spots, acne scars, and post-inflammatory marks from eczema and psoriasis. Keep in mind that it doesn’t help with active inflammation. Instead, it can be used to help fade red or brown spots that have lingered.

This ingredient and prescription aren’t appropriate for everyone so you should consult with your doctor or a licensed medical professional before using it. Overall, it can lighten dark patches on the skin and is an affordable and effective dark spot treatment. It’s available in a cream, gel, lotion, or emulsion form.

What is Hydroquinone Prescribed For?

Hydroquinone is prescribed for those who have dark patches on the skin that need to be lightened. You may be familiar with the terms it helps treat such as hyperpigmentation, melasma, liver spots, age spots, and freckles. The effect of using this prescription on your face only reduces hyperpigmentation and dark spots temporarily. When you stop using it, the dark spots may return as the skin begins to renew. It is prescribed for those who may have areas of skin that have grown darker than the other areas on the face, and generally speaking, is an effective lightening agent. It’s typically well-tolerated for all skin types but may cause irritation or further dryness for those with dry or sensitive skin. It tends to work best for individuals with fair skin tones.

How Does Hydroquinone Work?

How it works is that Hydroquinone bleaches your skin by way of decreasing the number of melanocytes that exist. Melanocytes make melanin, and melanin is how your skin tone is produced. Your skin can become more evenly toned by controlling the melanocytes. If you have hyperpigmentation then it means there is an increase in melanocyte production happening. You’ll likely notice it making an impact and difference on your skin in about four weeks, and it can be several months before you see complete results. While you previously could get it over the counter, it’s not available any longer. However, the prescription-strength formula has the potential to work best.

What Are The Side Effects of Hydroquinone?

There are possible side effects of Hydroquinone to be mindful of. Although, it is deemed safe to use in the US. One minor side effect if you have dry skin is that you may see an uptick in redness or dryness initially. However, you’re likely to notice these fade with continued use and as your skin gets used to the product. It’s also possible you have burning or stinging skin and blisters or oozing. There are some rare instances when Hydroquinone can cause ochronosis. It’s more likely to appear after prolonged daily use and is represented by papules and bluish-black pigmentation. Always tell your doctor if you notice concerns and if any of these effects worsen over time.