Hydroquinone Cream


Hydroquinone cream is the most popular option these days, for bleaching the skin. It is also used to treat skin disorders such as acne, melasma, hyperpigmentation and liver spots. Also referred to as quinol or benzene-1,4-diol, having chemical formula C6H4(OH)2, it is a phenol type organic compound. It is aromatic in nature.

It is used as skin moisturizer and cleanser. It is also used as a bleaching cream for melasma and hyperpigmentation, which is over saturation of melanin in body. In the US, you can buy it over the counter, having a concentration of hydroquinone up to 2%. This is comparatively safe, and works as skin lightening cream, without any reactions of allergy. It can be used to whiten freckles. Some dermatologists recommend Hydroquinone 4 to treat skin disorders such as acne scars and for lightening the skin, however, being very concentrated it increases the risks of side effects such as cancer.

Products

Hydroquinone is most commonly used in products meant for lightening the skin and as a bleaching cream for dark spots. Women who use more beauty care creams or sunscreen lotions are most likely to use creams that contain this chemical. It is also used in products such as face creams, hair conditioners, skin fading agents, skin moisturizers, anti aging products, skin lighteners and skin cleansers. According to research, tocopherol linoleate, tocopherol acetate and other chemicals with the prefix 'toco' are found to contain hydroquinone. In places like Saudi Arabia and some African nations, approximately 30% of the population uses creams for lightening the skin.

Side Effects

Hydroquinone lightens the skin by lowering melanin pigments in the skin and thus, increases the risk of exposure of skin to UVB and UVA rays. Ultra violet exposure may trigger the risk of skin cancer and carcinogenic effects. The U.S. Cosmetics Ingredient Review Panel states that it is dangerous to be included in products which need frequent use, such as skin care products. Hydroquinone may harm the endocrine system. It may also trigger disorders such as reproductive toxicity, cancer and neurotoxicity. The chemical can also lead to ochronosis, a skin disorder, in which skin gets affected due to the formation of black pigments. The members of the European Union have banned its use in skin care products due to these risks involved.

Reviews by the FDA state that its presence makes these creams potential carcinogen. Based on the study done on rodents, it was concluded that hydroquinone lead to development of hepatocellular adenoma, leukemia and anisokaryosis. Some people have reported to be suffering from tingling sensation and rashes on face. In some cases, usage during day time lead to development of hyperpigmentation on the face or cheekbones.

There is an ongoing debate between people for, and people against the chemical. People in favor of hydroquinone state that it is not administered orally and secondly, small amounts would not lead to cancer. People against it claim that, since it possesses a risk of triggering cancer, it's not safe to use it even in little amounts. It's always better to consult your dermatologist and before using, follow the directions listed on the product. Even though these creams are some of the most popular products for lightening skin disorders such as age spots, its side effects cannot be ignored. Using it, as directed and, in small amounts can help to be preventive. Also, avoid frequent use. Using it for years would just invite trouble. You may use it for a few weeks, and in small quantities.

Blog Archive