Hydroquinone

Also known as HQ

What is hydroquinone?

Hydroquinone is a skin lightener that blocks the enzyme your skin needs to make pigment. Dermatologists have used it for decades on melasma and stubborn dark spots. It is used in cycles of a few months, under a doctor's guidance, with daily sunscreen.
Best forMelasma Dark spots Hyperpigmentation Uneven tone

Pairs well with

  • Sunscreen
  • Retinol (as directed by your doctor)
  • Vitamin C
  • Niacinamide

Use with caution

  • Benzoyl peroxide (it can stain skin)
  • Use longer than your doctor advises
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Skipping sunscreen

Hydroquinone FAQs

Most dermatologists limit it to three or four months at a time, followed by a break. Long, unbroken use can darken skin in rare cases.

Dark spots often start to fade in four to six weeks. Full results take about three months.

Cysteamine, tranexamic acid, kojic acid, arbutin, and azelaic acid all fade pigment and suit long-term use.

Spots can return with sun exposure. Daily SPF 30 or higher and a gentler brightener keep them away.

Related reading

Dermatologist-approved melasma treatments Hyperpigmentation 101: types, causes, and treatments How to say goodbye to dark spots

This content on this page is for general information only and is not medical advice. Always speak to a dermatologist before starting a new skincare routine.