Hydroquinone Gel (Hydroquinone)

Do’s

• Talk to your healthcare provider before using hydroquinone. They can advise on the right concentration for your needs and skin type, and check for any potential interactions with other medications you're taking.
• Start with a low concentration (2%) and apply a pea-sized amount to the affected area(s) twice a day.
• Apply hydroquinone to clean, dry skin. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after application.
• Use a gentle moisturizer after applying hydroquinone. This can help soothe any irritation.
• Be consistent with your application. It may take several weeks to see results.
• Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. Hydroquinone can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
• Consider spot treatment instead of applying all over your face. This can minimize potential irritation.

Don'ts

• Don't use hydroquinone for longer than 3 months at a time without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't use hydroquinone on broken or irritated skin.
• Don't use hydroquinone near your eyes, mouth, or nostrils.
• Don't combine hydroquinone with other harsh skincare products like AHAs, BHAs, or high-dose Vitamin C products. These can irritate your skin further.
• Don't expect instant results. Be patient and consistent with your application.
• Don't discontinue use if you experience any severe irritation or allergic reaction. Talk to your healthcare provider.
• Don't use hydroquinone if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider for alternative solutions.

Common Side Effects:

• Mild burning or stinging of treated skin
• Mild itching, redness, or other irritation

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe skin redness, burning, or stinging
• Severe skin dryness, cracking, or bleeding
• Blisters or oozing
• Blue or black discoloration of the skin, especially if you are Hispanic or African-American
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficult breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Hydroquinone gel,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Talk to your healthcare provider about any allergies you have before using Hydroquinone gel, especially if you have a sulfite allergy (this may be listed as an inactive ingredient).

Inform your healthcare provider of your medical history, particularly if you have asthma or other skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

Disclose all medications you take (prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal) to your healthcare provider or dentist before surgery.

Hydroquinone gel during pregnancy should only be used if absolutely necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding if you are using Hydroquinone gel. It's unknown if the medication passes into breast milk.