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Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is used as a topical application in skin whitening to reduce the color of the skin. Hydroquinone works by decreasing the production and increasing the breakdown of melanosomes (melanin pigment granules) in the skin’s pigment cells (melanocytes). It does this by inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase, the enzyme needed to make melanin.
How Effective is Hydroquinone?
In most cases, lightening of skin should be seen after 4 weeks of treatment. Sometimes it may take longer to see any change but if no bleaching effect is seen after 3 months of treatment, you should stop using hydroquinone.
The effect is reversible by exposure to ultraviolet light. To increase the effectiveness of hydroquinone your patient should stay out of the sun, or wear protective clothing and use at least SPF15+ sunscreen when outdoors. Sunlamps or tanning salons should not be used.
It is important to use hydroquinone regularly until the desired bleaching is achieved. After this, use only as needed to maintain results.
Applications
Hydroquinone topical is used to lighten areas of darkened skin such as freckles, age spots, cholasma/melasma, any other pigmentary changes that occur and it may also help with acne.
How to Use Hydroquinone
Test for skin sensitivity before using by applying the cream to a small patch of hyperpigmented skin. If no redness or itching occurs within 24 hours, begin treatment.
Clean and dry the skin before applying a thin film of cream twice daily to the area(s) in need of bleaching. Rub into the skin well.
Apply just enough to cover the affected areas and avoid applying to normal skin, as this will lighten as well.
Do not apply near the eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes.
Avoid using other medicated topical products (particularly peroxide products) on the same area at the same time.
When using non-medicated cosmetics, sunscreens, and moisturising lotions, apply hydroquinone first, and then wait several minutes before applying them over the top.
Side Effects
Hydroquinone cream is generally well tolerated. Some patients may experience minor and temporary skin irritations including mild itching or stinging and reddening of the skin. If these do not subside stop using the cream.
Compounding
Hydroquinone is available without prescription up to 2% strength. Hydroquinone can be compounded in greater percentage concentrations with a prescription. This means your patient can achieve optimal results for their condition.
Antioxidants, such as vitamin C and retinoids, as well as alpha-hydroxy acids may be used as additives to increase penetration and enhance efficacy.
Please call ACP to discuss custom formulations. |
