Tag: Ochronosis

While hydroquinone is considered an effective topical skin-lightening agent for hyperpigmentation, a small percentage of users may experience side effects, particularly if used improperly. The medication works by decreasing the number of melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, to fade dark spots, but this process is not without its risks.

While hydroquinone is considered an effective topical treatment for hyperpigmentation, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received reports of serious side effects, including permanent skin discoloration. A critical look at the science is necessary to understand the question: **can hydroquinone damage your skin?** The answer is that potential risks exist, but these are significantly mitigated with proper use and medical supervision.

While standard hydroquinone prescription strengths typically do not exceed 4%, a 12% hydroquinone concentration is a high-potency compounded formula intended only for specific, resistant cases of hyperpigmentation and always under strict medical supervision.