Hydroquinone Gel (Hydroquinone)

Description

Indications

Hydroquinone is employed to lighten dark patches of skin, which are also known as hyperpigmentation, melasma, “liver spots,” “age spots,” or freckles. These patches can result from pregnancy, the use of birth control pills, hormone medication, or skin injury. The mechanism of action involves blocking the skin process responsible for discoloration.

Uses and Dosage

Follow all instructions provided on the product packaging or as directed by your doctor. Before usage, apply a small amount of this medication to an area of unbroken skin, and assess the area within 24 hours for any serious side effects.

If the test area experiences itching, redness, puffiness, or blistering, discontinue use of this product and consult your doctor. If only mild redness occurs, you may proceed with treatment using this product.

Administer this medication to the affected skin areas, typically twice daily or as per your doctor’s instructions.

This medication is intended for topical use only. Incorrect application may result in undesired skin lightening. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, or mouth. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.

Treated skin areas may become more sensitive to sunlight due to this medication. Minimize sun exposure, including tanning booths and sunlamps. Utilize sunscreen and wear protective clothing over treated skin areas when outdoors.

Consistently use this medication to achieve optimal results. Establish a routine by applying it at the same times daily.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens after two months of use.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• mild burning or stinging of treated skin
• mild itching, redness, or other irritation

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• blistering
• skin cracking
• blue-black darkening of the skin
• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

Caution

• Before starting hydroquinone, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. This product might contain inactive ingredients, such as sulfites, which could trigger allergic reactions or other issues.
• Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have asthma or other skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
• During pregnancy, use this medication only when absolutely necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
• It’s unclear whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Hydroquinone Gel is available in the following forms and strengths:

• hydroquinone gel:
  • 2 %
  • 4 %

FAQ

How long does it take to see results from Hydroquinone Gel?

It can take approximately 4-6 weeks of daily Hydroquinone Gel application before dark spots will begin to fade. After 8-12 weeks, optimal results should appear and overall skin tone will become more even.

Is it safe to use Hydroquinone Gel every day?

Yes, however prolonged use of Hydroquinone Gel may lead to the development of exogenous ochronosis. This condition causes blue-black pigmentation on the affected parts of the body.

Resources

1. https://www.apostrophe.com/slather/how-long-does-it-take-for-hydroquinone-to-work/#:~:text=When%20using%20hydroquinone%2C%20patients%20should,tone%20will%20become%20more%20even
2. https://www.yashodahospitals.com/medicine-faqs/hydroquinone/#:~:text=According%20to%20researchers%2C%20prolonged%20use,affected%20parts%20of%20the%20body
3. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=be22c3e0-8760-1568-e053-2995a90a112a
4. https://www.verywellhealth.com/hydroquinone-uses-5409321
5. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/hydroquinone#how-it-works
6. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1347/hydroquinone-topical/details
7. https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/hydroquinone-topical
8. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/hydroquinone-topical.html#side-effects