I’d be interested in your thoughts, research, experiments, and maybe even physician reviews. I also did my best to avoid these estrogenic foods. I have run across a couple of new potential treatments in my research. Alternate every 2 days, This really fades the hyperpigmentationi just need to do it on a constant base Rather, I recommend proper skin conditioning—using hydroquinone, hydroquinone plus retinoic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, antioxidants, and any disease-specific agents necessary—for four to six weeks before and after any procedure (once skin healing is complete). Hi. I have decided to stop using it. Divine Derriere Dark Spot Corrector Remover for Face and Body with 2% Hydroquinone, Intimate Brightening Serum Melasma Treatment Fade Cream with Kojic Acid Vitamin C, Salicylic Acid, Azelaic Acid, Lactic Acid. If you’ve ever wondered what determines the subtleties in skin tone between you and others in your family, it’s melanin. For example, complimentary ingredients such as salicylic acid, azelaic acid, lactic acid & vitamin C help to expedite healing and the release of melanin from the skin. Hydroquinone has made quite a name for itself around the world in skin lightening creams and scar treatment products. Google the side effects and you'll find them. I applied the cream to my face each night for 5 weeks and it did not even budge the hyperpigmentation a little bit. Looking for a Hydroquinone product that is proven to work? But because it’s all relative, the blotches on my face still affect the way I feel about myself when I look in the mirror. Treatment regimens include using hydroquinone 4% (and other hydroquinone-containing combinations) once to twice daily for 1-2 weeks prior to the laser procedure. How to use hydroquinone. Each night I washed my face using olive oil and warm water. ... and you should not take any action before … Indeed, each individual may react differently to the chemical, so it is absolutely crucial to obtain a doctor’s opinion before investing too much effort into using hydroquinone. What many people may not realize is that hydroquinone is a harsh chemical that exposes you to many dangers. For very severe or resistant cases of hyperpigmentation, you may want to consider working with a dermatologist who can prescribe a treatment with a potency of 4%. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with this. Oh you guys…I’m sooo disappointed to let you know that Hydroquinone did NOT work for my melasma at all. Caution is advised when topical hydroquinone is used by a nursing mother. After oxidation of the hydroquinone to quinone, the Ru II → bipy(π 2 *) m.l.c.t. Your email address will not be published. Admittedly I understand that my patches of melasma are lighter than most…so for that reason alone I feel fortunate. Generally speaking, most people begin to see results within 2-4 weeks of using Hydroquinone, but more stubborn cases of hyperpigmentation may take a little longer. If no improvement is seen after 2 months of treatment, use of this product should be discontinued. 3.9 out of 5 stars 2,143. I was also taking Vitamin D, MSM, Cod Liver Oil, Probiotic, and Milk Thistle. Have you heard of it? It’s understandable when you’ve been dealing with hyperpigmentation that you want results as quickly as possible, but Hydroquinone is not an instant gratification treatment. I understand that many of you feel the same way, so I just want to thank you for your words of encouragement and willingness to share what is and is not working. Thank you so much for watching! This is because as the melanin starts to break down it will appear darker in the dead cells that are on top layer of skin. I cut out gluten, sugar, alcohol and dairy out of my diet. I am actually seeing results. Therefore, maximizing the effects of hydroquinone is crucial to optimizing correction before the skin becomes resistant. Both combinations faded hyperpigmentation and melasma equally well, BUT Kojic Acid was more irritating. If after 3 months of treatment with an over the counter strength Hydroquinone product you’re not satisfied with the results you’re seeing, it might be time to speak with a skin care professional about your options. Do not use hydroquinone topical on open wounds or on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin. Our website use cookies. Love your blog. i had irritation ie. It’s suggested that you cycle off Hydroquinone treatment after about 3 months of use and take a “holiday” of 1-3 months before resuming treatment. Looking forward to the exchange of thoughts and potential successes! Many people with hyperpigmentation desperately want a solution but aren’t satisfied with the effectiveness or safety of many of the treatment options that are currently available. WE SHIP FREE ON ALL DOMESTIC ORDERS - WE HONOR A 30-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE. Another study compared the effects of Kojic Acid + Glycolic Acid VS Hydroquinone + Glycolic Acid. Hundreds of ochronosis cases have been documented from using resorcinol/hydroquinone combination treatments in South Africa before 1984 (Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 1997). The other is a new product called Lumixyl. Could your bathroom habits be affecting your Melasma? Apply this medicine only to … It is however, one that offers real results. How to cover Melasma with makeup & get a natural look. After all, the cream was less than $100. Cycling usage is the new protocol and essential to reducing resistance. The ZO® Difference: Before and After Advanced Therapeutic and Preventative Skin Health Solutions Angela T. 38 years old. Hydroquinone is the best skin-lightener … But seeing as I haven’t seen any lightening at all, I’ve decided to end a little early…what’s the point? Hydroquinone 4%: This cream/medication should be applied twice daily after cleansing. But did that cream work? I lost 8 pounds, but unfortunately, that did not help the melasma at all. Do not use coverings (bandages, dressings, make-up) unless told to do so by the doctor. Review of the It Cosmetics Matte CC Cream – Does it Cover Melasma? But because it’s all relative, the blotches on my face still affect the way I feel about myself when I look in the mirror. I too suffer from melasma and am right there with you in your quest for “relief”. It’s worked wonders for them. ... ZO® Multi-Therapy Hydroquinone System Hyperpigmentation is also hormonal imbalance Instead, it works on a cellular level, and as melanin is released from the skin, it becomes lighter and you begin to see the visible results. Admittedly I understand that my patches of melasma are lighter than most…so for that reason alone I feel fortunate. I have never heard of either of those..and will be doing some research! I have researched a lot as well and found a cream called Cysteamine Cream…natural and way better for your skin than hydroquinone. 2% Hydroquinone Serum - Melasma Treatment & Dark Spot Corrector, Anti Wrinkle, Anti Aging Collagen Cream With Hyaluronic Acid & Sea Kelp Bioferment. Apply Hydroquinone in the evening after Retin-A and in the morning for 2 to 6 weeks prior to the procedure. Clean affected part before use. Hydroquinone continues to be prescribed by some dermatologists because it works, and is often a last resort before turning to pricier in-office procedures such as lasers. I really had high hopes that it would lighten my melasma….but after 5 weeks of nightly applications. I was hoping to see some breaking up of the large patch on my forehead and lightening on the upper lip, however, no improvement has happened. This Doctor thinks so! Hydroquinone decreases the formation of melanin in the skin. I then applied the Hydroquinone to the melasma sections of my face and went to bed. Make sure to dry well. My once adorable freckles turned into dark splotchy patches and I was very self conscious of my skin. Let’s talk about how Hydroquinone works and what to expect with treatment. However, most people will receive benefit from using an over-the-counter strength formula that contains up to 2% Hydroquinone – the maximum, non-prescription strength allowed. My dermatologist instructed me to use it for 6 weeks and then stop. Required fields are marked *. Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent. The more melanin someone has, the darker the color of their skin. “Used in combination with other acne products such as Retin-A, hydroquinone can help dramatically improve skin complexion.” That doesn’t mean it has permanent effects, though. Photo By Jennifer Kramer See MORE Before & After Photos There has there been a lot of misinformation about Hydroquinone – the ingredient used to lighten dark patches of skin. HYDROQUINONE USP, 4% SKIN BLEACHING CREAM should be applied to affected areas and rubbed in well twice daily, in the morning and before bedtime, or as directed by a physician. Hi; I think that washing your face with olive oil and warm water will create a barrier for the medication to be properly absorbed by your skin. If you remember I was prescribed Kligman’s Formula which is a combination of Hydroquinone, Tretinol & a topical steroid. $21.99 $ 21. Practice good skin care and avoid the sun. Hydroquinone is a depigmenting agent used to lighten areas of darkened skin such as freckles, age spots, chloasma, and melisma caused by pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone medicine, or injury to the skin. I apply HQ at night and during the day I use a 100% UV sunblock lotion. You’re only 2 – 4 more weeks away from saying good-bye to skin discolorations, so what are you waiting for? I started using cream for 2 days now. When used in skin care products, Hydroquinone is often regarded as a magic eraser. Also do honey mask or patato juice mask or tomato. Thank you again! Click here. Your email address will not be published. If no redness or itching occurs within 24 hours, begin treatment. I think the skin should be dry and clean of oils before you apply the treatment. In this short informative article, you will understand more about the use of hydroquinone and where you can easily find products that contain this accessible and affordable lightening ingredient. I’ve seen this stuff work on so many including my neighbor and friend who both suffered terrible Melasma. It’s always smarter to speak with someone who understands the benefits and disadvantages of long-term Hydroquinone use rather than take chances with the health of your skin by taking matters into your own hands. Thank you! I feel like I have tried everything to cure or lighten my Melasma and nothing seems to be working. She is an interior and furniture designer in Laguna Beach and she has been a patient of Dr. Obagi since 2005. Melasma represents only a portion of people who are dealing with hyperpigmentation. My upper lip actually looks worse than before and I wonder if it was because the hydroquinone irritated that area of my skin. I also have Melasma and was wondering if you’ve found anything that works since you wrote this article?! So to really take care of your hormanal balance. Hydroquinone Cream is a bleaching cream that is used to lighten uneven skin tone and brown spots. Hello! Before using this product, apply a very small amount of this medicine to an area of unbroken skin like the back of the hand palm and check the area in 24 hours for any serious side effects that might occur. Love your blog. 7 Best Face Powders with SPF for Melasma & Hyperpigmentation in 2020, How I Reduced My Melasma In the Last 2 Years, Best Foundation & BB Creams for Melasma [Updated 2020], 10 Best Sunscreens for Melasma [Updated 2020], 5 Simple Ways to Get Rid of a Melasma Mustache, 10 Best Concealers for Melasma Hyperpigmentation [Updated 2020], 5 Types of Melasma Creams That Get Results, Essential Oils & Melasma – My New Whole Body Wellness Regimen. When people ask how long Hydroquinone will take to work, it’s often with a sense of urgency and a little anxiety. This serum is a number one bestseller with nearly 4,500 reviews and so many before-and-after photos that are blowing our mind. Hope this helps. redness, stinging, swelling, and peeling. Admire My Skin’s Ultra Potent Lightening Serum is a 2% Hydroquinone product that’s been formulated with complimentary ingredients for the best results. If you’ve been searching for a solution to hyperpigmentation, Hydroquinone could be your answer. Do not wash your hands after use if putting this on your hand. You can use Hydroquinone and Retin-A together to brighten your skin. the nurse said after the irritation disappears,to use alternate days instead of daily thoughts? Vitamin C. Think beyond orange juice: Vitamin C can be used as a topical antioxidant that helps to … Each morning I would wash off my face, apply sunscreen, concealer & my favorite foundation for melasma. Sometimes, for a variety of reasons, there’s an overproduction of melanin and we see this as darker spots on the skin. Yes, you can find treatments for just about any skin condition to quickly improve the appearance, however in almost every case, the effects are only temporary and do nothing to solve the problem. Give a try to Sandalwood Paste and sometimes also a[pply lemon juice to the affected parts. How long until you see results with Hydroquinone also depends on the other ingredients in the formula. It’s suggested that you cycle off Hydroquinone treatment after about 3 months of use and take a “holiday” of 1-3 months before resuming treatment. Take care not to apply any hydroquinone cream to non-melasma skin, as it can potentially lighten its color. Melanin is a pigment that found in the skin, hair and the irises of the eyes. I know your post was a long time ago. Something to keep in mind when assessing the results you’re getting with Hydroquinone treatment is that sometimes skin discoloration can appear darker at first as the treatment begins to work. I am Applying these two things every alternate day and really it is helping me. Copyright © 2019, Admire My Skin. Unlike other skin treatments, Hydroquinone is not intended for long term, continual use. before and after hydroquinone Follow keenly every directions on the product package or apply as directed by the doctor. As these cells are sloughed off, preferably through gentle exfoliation, they disappear and reveal the lighter, less pigmented skin beneath. It can lighten everything from freckles and acne scars to post-inflammatory marks caused by conditions like eczema. Hopefully it will fade.. The Mobile App Every Person with Melasma Should Download. Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine, unless you are using it to treat the skin on your hands. If you’ve been spending some time researching skin lightening products to treat your hyperpigmentation, you’ve no doubt come across Hydroquinone. Hydroquinone – How Long to Use for Safety and Lasting Results Unlike other skin treatments, Hydroquinone is not intended for long term, continual use. Put a thin layer on the affected skin and rub in gently. I have ordered a tube. Dermatologists in favor of hydroquinone believe that using a small amount for a short time period while under medical supervision is … The 2 creams can be used together for 3 months at a time, then you need to take a break. Hundreds of ochronosis cases have been documented from using resorcinol/hydroquinone combination treatments in South Africa before 1984 (Journal of Dermatological Treatment). 99 ($21.99/FL Oz) It doesn’t help that skin lightening treatments aren’t something that most people use every day, so the average person knows little about them. One is topical application of Silymarin. I held out for so long because of all the controversy around hydroquinone like it can make melasma worse or makes your skin even more sensitive to light. Wash your hands thoroughly after applying the hydroquinone cream. shifts to the blue as a result of the stabilization of the t 2g level when the σ-donating ability of the ligand is decreased. Hydroquinone is proven to be one of the most effective skin-lightening ingredients available but also one of the most controversial. The truth is that these are words that just don’t work well together. Wash your hands before and after use. Yes, I tried it and it for 3 months and it did nothing for me. It is important to use hydroquinone regularly as directed until you achieve the desired bleaching, after which use as needed to maintain results. As many of you know, I saw Hydroquinone as my last option. Disclaimer: I am not a doctor :) I'm just a girl who suffers from melasma and I'm on a quest to find out as much information about the disorder as I can and hopefully rid myself of Melasma once and for all. When will Hydroquinone work for you depends on a few factors that need to be considered. Before starting the hydroquinone I also went on a clean eating diet. ... Topical hydroquinone should be used on pregnant women only when clearly indicated. Its ability to lighten skin discolorations is based 100% in science. If your questions about what to expect with Hydroquinone treatment have prevented you from taking the leap, we hope they’ve been answered and that you’re ready to erase hyperpigmentation from your life for good. The rationale makes sense. Wait for the cream to fully dry before applying makeup, moisturizer, sunscreen or any other topical products. Could Exposing your Face to Sunlight Cure Melasma? I take fresh aloe vera. With that said, before you attempt using hydroquinone you first need to learn how to use it safely. I was willing to give that a try before spending money on laser treatments. for melasma around my mouth, i was prescribed a 8% hydroquinone containing bleaching cream. Medications, scarring, sun damage, aging and Lentigines – more commonly known as “liver spots” – are just some of the other culprits behind uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation. However, products like Ambi Fade Cream, which incorporates a mere 2% of … Honestly, there’s nothing magical about Hydroquinone. In the United States, more than 5 million people are affected by Melasma – a hyperpigmentation condition that’s responsible for darkened, discolored patches of skin in the facial area. This issue with darker skin use is a well-documented occurrence with combined use of products containing resorcinol and hydroquinone. 4% Hydroquinone: rated 4 out of 5 on MakeupAlley. Hydroquinone as a skin lightening treatment works by blocking the production and expediting the breakdown of melanin in the cells. ... 5 Beauty Tips For Before And After Working Out; And make a mask of it at night and sleep with it wash it off and in the morning mix 2 spoins yogurt with 1/2 tea spoon of tumeric and leave it on 15mun on weekends leave it on 1 hr Before & After Pictures of Hydroquinone on Melasma. Note that nothing about Hydroquinone is a bleaching agent. All Rights Reserved. “Hydroquinone is a topical skin treatment for melasma, freckles, age and sun spots, and even acne scars,” Shafer says. Have any of you tried Rodan+Fields Reverse? It also helps to inhibit the cell’s ability to store up the pigment, which helps to prevent further discoloration from occurring. The results? Let’s talk for a minute about instant gratification and skincare. For example, the initial usage period may last from to 4-6 months, tapering the dosage down after … Apply a … See 25 member reviews and photos. Test for skin sensitivity before using by applying the cream to a small patch of hyperpigmented skin. If you’re concerned about skin discolorations and how to best treat them, you’re not alone. Several dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons suggested the use of a hydroquinone based cream. I have also read about Cysteamine cream. Check out before and after photos of those who have used our products. Thanks! Remember oil and water don’t mix and HQ contains water. The severity and cause of the discoloration can affect treatment time, as well as the strength of Hydroquinone in the product. Nursing Mothers: It is not known whether topical hydroquinone is absorbed or excreted in human milk. You can see in the pictures above that the ridges of my forehead are still in tact and they did not break up or lighten at all. I wore hats when I go outside and I even got my car windows tinted to block out the UV rays. Hello! Before you start using hydroquinone topical, you may choose to apply a "test dose" to see if you have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Come visit me on Instagram! How did it work?