Hydroquinone is a substance indicated in the gradual lightening of spots, such as melasma, freckles, senile lentigo, and other conditions in which hyperpigmentation occurs due to excessive melanin production.
This substance is available in cream or gel form and can be purchased in pharmacies for a price of about 45 to 80 reais, depending on the brand that the person chooses.
Hydroquinone can be found under the trade names Solaquin, Claquinona, Vitacid Plus or Hormoskin, for example, and in some formulations it may be associated with other actives. In addition, this substance can also be handled in pharmacies.
How it works
Hydroquinone acts as a substrate for the enzyme tyrosinase, competing with tyrosine and thus inhibiting the formation of melanin, which is the pigment that gives color to the skin. In this way, with the decrease in melanin production, the stain becomes increasingly clear.
In addition, although more slowly, hydroquinone causes structural changes in the membranes of melanocyte organelles, accelerating the degradation of melanosomes, which are the cells responsible for the production of melanin.
How to use
The hydroquinone product should be applied in a thin layer to the area to be treated, twice a day, once in the morning and once at night or at the discretion of the doctor. The cream should be used until the skin is properly depigmented, and should be applied for a few more days for maintenance. If the depigmentation expected is not observed after 2 months of treatment, the product should be discontinued, and the doctor should be informed.
Care to be taken during treatment
During hydroquinone treatment, the following precautions should be taken:
- Avoid exposure to the sun while undergoing treatment; Avoid applying to large areas of the body; First test the product in a small region and wait 24 hours to see if the skin reacts. Suspend the treatment if skin reactions such as itching occur, inflammation or blistering.
In addition, you should talk to the doctor about products that can continue to be applied to the skin, in order to avoid drug interactions.
Who should not use
Hydroquinone should not be used in people who are hypersensitive to the components of the formula, during pregnancy and lactation.
In addition, contact with the eyes should be avoided and if accidental contact occurs, wash with plenty of water. It should also not be used on irritated skin or in the presence of sunburn.
Discover other options to lighten skin blemishes.
Possible side effects
Some of the side effects that may occur during hydroquinone treatment are redness, itching, excessive inflammation, blistering and a mild burning sensation.
