What Is Hydroquinone Used For?

Hydroquinone slows pigment production in treated skin. It is applied only to selected areas and is not intended to lighten the whole body or change a person’s natural skin colour. The cause of the darkening matters: marks may follow acne or inflammation, while other changes need a different diagnosis and plan.

Using too much, applying it to irritated skin or continuing without supervision can cause significant irritation and unwanted colour changes. Rarely, prolonged or unsuitable use has been associated with exogenous ochronosis, a condition that can make skin look blue-grey or darkened.

Use the prescribed amount and follow the schedule given by your clinician. Keep it away from eyes, lips, broken skin and mucous membranes, and wash your hands after application. Daily broad-spectrum sun protection helps limit further darkening. Do not combine it with several irritating products without advice, and do not share a prescribed cream.

Stop and contact your clinician about intense burning, swelling, blistering, a spreading rash or marked tenderness. Arrange a review if the treated area becomes progressively blue-grey or darker, or if pigmentation changes despite careful use. Eye exposure with persistent pain or vision changes needs prompt medical attention.

What is causing my pigmentation, and is hydroquinone suitable for it? Where should I apply it, for how long, and which products should I avoid? What change would mean I should stop?