Clinical Blogs — Hydroquinone

Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) after acne is commonly seen and can be very disturbing psychologically. These brown spots may persist for months or even years. Hydroquinone, the skin bleaching agent, is the gold standard for treatment hyperpigmentation including PIH caused by acne. It can be used in age 13 or older. Hydroquinone is usually started when the acne is resolved. Suggested frequency of application is twice daily for 2 to 6 months. The skin lightening process occurs over 1 to 6 months. If there is no improvement after 2 months, hydroquinone therapy should be discontinued. Sunscreen with an SPF of...

Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) which is derived from sugar cane. It is commonly added to hydroquinone-containing products for the treatment of hyperpigmentation (dark patches of skin). Glycolic acid is used to exfoliate skin. This helps to remove dead skin cells and thus helps to improve the penetration of hydroquinone into the skin. It also helps to enhance the depigmentation effects. The study has shown that the combination of hydroquinone and glycolic acid is safe and effective in the treatment of melasma (a form of hyperpigmentation). While using glycolic acid containing products, avoid using other...