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Hydroquinone is a medication used in topical skin creams to lighten or bleach dark spots on the skin. It works by suppressing the production of melanin by melanocytes.
Studies have shown that hydroquinone can improve photodamage from 30-70%, including reducing hyperpigmentation, texture, fine lines, dryness, tone, and clarity of the skin. (Gladstone et al)
Hydroquinone is good for giving your face and neck a more even complexion. It helps with lightening dark spots on the skin from hyperpigmentation, melasma, or sun damage. It is used in dark spot correctors and melasma treatment. Hydroquinone can also help smooth rough skin. Lastly, hydroquinone has been shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by revealing a more even complexion and an overall bright, more youthful appearance.
There are some drawbacks to using hydroquinone.
Hydroquinone can cause redness, irritation, inflammation, and burning of the skin.
In rare instances, using this medication over years has actually caused the skin of some people to develop bluish-black patches, called ochronosis. This condition seems to occur with people of darker skin tones in general.
There has also been controversy in the past over whether hydroquinone has carcinogenic properties. In recent scientific studies, it has been shown that long-term use of hydroquinone could increase the chance of developing cancer. Therefore, this should be the last resort when other skin-brightening ingredients don't work for you.
Rosacea refers to a redness of the face caused by a condition affecting the blood vessels in the face. It’s more common in middle-aged women with lighter complexions, although rosacea can affect anyone. The exact cause is unknown, though it is typically hereditary and not caused by pore clogs or skin infections. Many people mistake rosacea’s redness and bumpiness of the face for acne. Rosacea has no cure, and it can fluctuate in its severity from month to month.
There are a few ingredients that can help reduce inflammation associated with rosacea. For example, jojoba oil is good for reducing inflammation associated with certain conditions that cause redness. However, it is important to work with a dermatologist to determine the cause of redness on your skin to determine the right course of treatment if it is rosacea or a combination of concerns.
hydroquinone may be effective for rosacea, but there are many other factors that may affect whether this ingredient would work on your skin or if there are better ingredients that may work for you. Take this skin quiz to find the best ingredients for your skin and build your skincare routine.
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