This blog post is sponsored by John Plunkett’s Superfade Cream. Show
If we’ve known each other a while, you’ve definitely heard of retinoids as the gold standard in skincare for anti-aging. It is my pleasure to now introduce you to hydroquinone – the gold standard in skincare for hyperpigmentation. We’ll cover everything you need to know, including how to get it in Australia without a prescription. Excited? Same. Let’s dive in. What is hydroquinone?Easily synthesised in a lab OR found in nature (for example in bee propolis or bearberry), hydroquinone is a small molecule regarded as the gold standard for treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders. It’s a powerful pigment blocker! hannahenglish.com.au What is hydroquinone used for?Hydroquinone is used for treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders, which are defined as darkening of the skin or nails, caused by excess melanin. It evens out the skin tone by lightening hyperpigmentation – this could be freckles, age spots, melasma, or leftover pigmentation from acne. It’s brilliant for use leading up to a salon peel, too. By pre-treating with a potent pigment blocker like hydroquinone, you can help to ensure that the dark spot formation is interrupted in new skin cells being formed. This way, when you peel off the older, damaged cells, you’ll see more of a dramatic result. Speak to your dermatologist, derm nurse, or dermal clinician if you think this is right for you How do I get hydroquinone in Australia?It’s actually quite easy! Hydroquinone cream is also commonly prescribed by dermatologists at 4%, 5%, 6%, or even 10%. You might have heard of the fabled Kligman’s Pigmentation Cream – this contains hydroquinone 5%, tretinoin 0.1%, another gold standard but for overall anti-aging, and dexamethasone 0.1%, a steroid to mitigate any irritation. Higher concentrations are not always better – I’m a huge advocate of starting at a low dose and giving my skin a chance to see results before I take on anything as serious as a prescription face cream. Will it work for my skintone? Are there side effects?Hydroquinone
is suitable for all skintones. Despite what you may have heard, there’s no clinical evidence suggesting topical hydroquinone is anything less than safe when used correctly.
How do I introduce hydroquinone into my skincare regimen?First of all, you need to wear sunscreen daily. And reapply! Now for some good news – hydroquinone cream is compatible with your existing skincare. How long does it take to see results from hydroquinone cream?Dark spots won’t fade overnight, but it happens pretty quickly! Pigmentation is formed over a long period of time, so it takes time and a consistent routine to fade. Used daily, you can expect noticeable results from a hydroquinone product in 6-12 weeks. From here, take a break for a couple months, see how you’re travelling, and repeat the cycle as required. Altogether,Hydroquinone cream is a well-researched and very effective treatment for dark spots. Like any medicine, it’s best to read the label and use as directed. Superfade Face Cream label information: How quickly does hydroquinone fade hyperpigmentation?A major key to hydroquinone is short-term use. You can slather it on twice daily for at least six weeks (and no more than six months). After one to three months, you should start to see your hyperpigmentation fade away.
How effective is hydroquinone for hyperpigmentation?A study testing a hydroquinone monotherapy indicated an 85% satisfaction rate after a 12-week period, with 90% of participants reporting that they no longer made significant efforts to hide skin discoloration (Grimes).
How long does it take to see hydroquinone results?It takes about four weeks on average for the ingredient to take effect. It may take several months of consistent use before you see full results. If you don't see any improvements within three months of OTC use, talk to your dermatologist.
Do dark spots come back after hydroquinone?Answer: Dark spots return after stopping hydroquinone
Yes. Unfortunately, after stopping HQ it is not surprising if the dark spots return, particularly if you are exposed to any sunlight.
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