When patches of hyperpigmentation develop on the upper lip, cheeks or forehead even the most confident people can become distressed.
Known as melasma, these patches tend to show up on the face, making them difficult to hide. Changing hormones are the most common cause of melasma. So the skin condition is most prevalent among pregnant women, women on the birth control pill, and men and women with thyroid imbalances.
Of the many remedies available for melasma, hydroquinone is one of the most effective and popular.
What Is Hydroquinone and How Does It Work?
Hydroquinone is a chemical that is used in skin lightening cream to reduce dark skin patches such as melasma. It is thought that the hydroquinone reduces the production of melanosomes (pigment granuals responsible for skin pigmentation) and causes them to deteriorate. The chemical also blocks the production of tyrosinase, an enzyme that is necessary in the production of melanin.
Hydroquinone‘s Effectiveness for Melasma Treatment
Many patients report results after only two weeks of hydroquinone use, though this varies depending on the extent of the melasma, the concentration of hydroquinone used and other factors. You can find hydroquinone-containing products in over-the-counter concentrations of 2% or less. To obtain 4% hydroquinone, you need to have a prescription from a doctor or dermatologist.
As with any melasma treatment, it is important that you wear SPF of at least 15 when going outside. UVA and UVB rays only stimulate further production of melanin, which is counterproductive to treatment.
While hydroquinone is highly effective for many, it does not work for everyone. Some experience unfavorable reactions to the chemical, and others report that their melasma remains unaffected by hydroquinone.
Because of its effectiveness as a skin-lightening product, hydroquinone is also used to treat acne scar pigmentation, freckles, and age spots. However, pregnant women or women who are nursing should not use hydroquinone.
How To Use Hydroquinone, as Directed by Your Physician
It is often recommended that you first test the product on a small patch of skin that can easily be concealed. Watch out for swelling, crusting, itching, burning, and skin discoloration. If you are still symptom-free within 24 hours of application, then you can proceed with normal use, as directed by your physician.
Your doctor can advise you to apply the product directly to the patches of melasma, taking care to avoid the eyes, mouth, and any other mucous membranes. Apply to the same area every day, either once or twice daily. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after each application.
Read more about Dermesse products with Hydroquinone
