Does hydroquinone get rid of melasma?

Hydroquinone is an FDA-approved skin-lightening agent that works by inhibiting the skin’s pigment-producing cells. Six of our experts named it as an extremely effective way to treat melasma flare-ups, especially via products that combine hydroquinone with other active ingredients like exfoliating acids.

How long does it take for hydroquinone to work on melasma?

How effective is hydroquinone? In most cases, lightening of skin should be seen after four weeks of treatment. Sometimes it may take longer to see any change, but if no bleaching effect is seen after three months of treatment, you should stop using hydroquinone.

Can melasma get worse with hydroquinone?

Treatment. Hydroquinone may be helpful in epidermal-type melasma. Concentrations vary from 2% to 10% and hydroquinone may be used twice daily for 12 weeks. Hydroquinone may cause local skin irritation, however, and thereby leading to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, making the skin pigmentation worse.

What percentage of hydroquinone is effective?

In conclusion, hydroquinone is safe and effective when used as directed by a physician for a wide variety of pigmentation problems. To increase its efficacy and avoid unwanted side effects, dermatologists should consider the following protocol: Prescribe hydroquinone concentrations no higher than 4%.

Is hydrafacial good for treating melasma?

The HydraFacial MD® treatment is one of the most effective options for individuals who suffer from melasma, as it works to gently resurface the skin, improving its overall quality. This 4-step process, which involves cleansing, exfoliating, hydrating, and nourishing the skin, is completely customized to suit the individual needs of the patient.

What products have hydroquinone?

Examples of prescription products containing hydroquinone are Lustra, Tri-Luma, and EpiQuin Micro. Hydroquinone products are popular for their skin-lightening properties in Asian and African cosmetics markets. In the U.S., they also are marketed for reducing age spots and blemishes.

Is azelaic acid an effective cure for melasma?

One study found that products containing azelaic acid were effective in reducing the number of melasma lesions people had.

Does Epiduo help melasma?

Not really: Epiduo is a combination of benzoyl peroxide and adapalene. While it is an excellent choice for acne, and the Adapalene may slightly help to lighten discolored skin, it is not a treatment for melasma.