Hydroquinone

TYPE OF INGREDIENT​
Depigmenting or lightening agent
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Lightening creams

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HYDROQUINONE?

Hydroquinone is an effective ingredient to improve pigmentary conditions such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma.

WHAT IS HYDROQUINONE?

Hydroquinone is a chemical agent that reduces the production of pigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in the formation of melanin. Topical treatments containing 2% or less hydroquinone are available as over the counter treatments in the United States, whereas higher strength products require a prescription. 

hydroquinone-in-black-board

IS HYDROQUINONE SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?

While hydroquinone can lighten areas of hyperpigmentation, it can also lead to lightening of normal skin as well; it is imperative to carefully apply to targeted areas only. In addition, unsupervised and long-term use of hydroquinone is associated with ochronosis, which is a condition characterized by darkening of the skin. It is important to discuss the use of hydroquinone with a board-certified dermatologist before starting treatment. Hydroquinone is associated with redness, inflammation and irritation, and should be used cautiously in those with sensitive skin. It is also associated with increased photosensitivity.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Hydroquinone is contraindicated in patients with allergic reactions or hypersensitivity to hydroquinone. It should be used in caution in combination with other medications that cause photosensitivity as well. Current studies have not shown an increased risk of adverse effects in pregnant women; however, because 35-45% of topical hydroquinone is absorbed systemically, it is recommended to minimize exposure during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Sources:

Sofen B, Prado G, Emer J. Melasma and Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Management Update and Expert Opinion. Skin Therapy Lett. 2016 Jan;21(1):1-7.

Schwartz C, Jan A, Zito PM. Hydroquinone. [Updated 2023 Mar 7]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539693/

Bozzo P, Chua-Gocheco A, Einarson A. Safety of skin care products during pregnancy. Can Fam Physician. 2011 Jun;57(6):665-7.

Toral Vaidya, MD, MPH

Author

Toral Vaidya, MD, MPH, is a dermatology resident physician at Weill Cornell Dermatology in New York City. Her clinical interests include skin of color dermatology, cosmetic dermatology and skincare education. She has been involved with medical writing for the last 10 years.