Hydroquinone cream

What is Hydroquinone cream?

Hydroquinone cream is used to lighten areas of darker skin in conditions like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (that’s darkening of the skin after injuries, acne or rashes), melasma and acanthosis nigricans.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a common skin issue that happens after skin inflammation or injury. Although it often gets better on its own, it can take months to years to fully heal.^[1]

Melasma is a common condition characterised by dark patches on the face and neck, especially in areas that catch a lot of sun. It affects women more than men and has been linked to various factors like pregnancy, birth control pills, genetics, sun exposure, cosmetics, and race^[2]

Acanthosis nigricans is a skin condition characterised by velvety, darkened patches of skin, often found in areas where skin rubs skin, like the neck, armpits and groin. It can also cause skin thickening. It’s commonly linked to diabetes and insulin resistance, but in rare cases, it can be linked to cancer.^[3]

It’s important to stress that hydroquinone is only available on prescription, and it should be used under medical supervision to prevent unwanted effects like changes in skin colour and skin thinning.^[4]

How does Hydroquinone cream work?

Hyperpigmentation is often the result of increased melanin production. Melanin is the pigment responsible for your skin’s colour, and it’s produced by melanocytes, a type of skin cell.^[5]Basically, in hyperpigmentation, melanocytes ‘go into overdrive’ and produce an excess of melanin.

Hydroquinone lightens your skin by reducing the production of melanin. It does this by inhibiting an enzyme called tyrosinase which helps your melanocytes produce melanin.^[6]It also reduces the number of melanocytes in your skin, helping your skin have a more even tone.^[7]

What doses of Hydroquinone cream are there?

Hydroquinone cream comes in two concentrations: 2% and 4%. Which one you use will depend on your specific condition and how severe it is. Typically, you’ll be advised to apply the cream twice a day to the areas of darker skin for 3 to 6 months.

How to apply Hydroquinone cream for hyperpigmentation

It’s best to test if your skin is sensitive to Hydroquinone cream before using it for the first time. To do this, simply apply a small amount of the cream to an intact area of your skin and wait for 24 hours and see how it reacts. Some minor redness is okay, but if you feel itching, notice blisters or excessive inflammation, it’s best to stop using it. Instead, ask your clinician for alternatives to Hydroquinone.

As with all medications, make sure to follow your clinician’s instructions closely, but here’s some general guidance on how to use Hydroquinone cream safely and effectively:

1. Peel off the foil seal.
2. Apply the cream to the affected areas.
3. Rub it in, twice a day. Once in the morning and once before bedtime.
4. Avoid contact with your mouth, nose, eyes and genital areas.

Another crucial thing to remember when using Hydroquinone for hyperpigmentation is to protect the treated skin from the sun. Why? Because even a little sunlight can trigger melanin production, which can make your skin darker. To prevent repigmentation, use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher and wear protective clothing to shield your skin from the sun.

How long does Hydroquinone cream take to work for hyperpigmentation?

You can expect to see some changes in your skin colour after four-to-six weeks of using Hydroquinone cream. But this can differ from person to person. It often requires patience, and depends on factors like the amount of skin you’re treating and the underlying cause.

If you don’t see any improvement after two or three months of treatment, stop using the cream and ask your clinician for advice.

What should I do if I make a mistake while using Hydroquinone cream?

If Hydroquinone cream accidentally gets in your eyes, mouth or nose, just rinse it well with plenty of water. If you swallow it by accident, get in contact with your clinician or go to the A&E immediately.

And make sure not to use it for longer than six months. Extended use can damage your skin, causing unwanted lightening or thinning.