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When Can I Use Hydroquinone 4%?
asked 6 months ago by Mary Ann in NY in Howard Beach, NY
Latest answer by Vivek Bansal, MD
Question viewed 169 times
Tags: discoloration, hydroquinone, wait
I had a fraxel C02 laser procedure on 12/23/11. I still have some discoloration on the left side of my face (the procedure did make it lighter). How long do I have to wait to use hydroquinone 4%? Will the hydroquninone get rid of this discoloration? Thank you, Mary Ann
4 answers to When Can I Use Hydroquinone 4%?
+1
Fraxel Laser
HQ rarely “gets rid” of the color,, but controls it, minimizes the pigment, but rarely gets rid of it, and then only temporarily. Sunscreen is still needed, and management of the cycles of HQ are needed. You should not use it every day, all year.
Vivek Bansal, MD
Danville Plastic Surgeon
Danville Plastic Surgeon
+1
Use of Hydroquinone after Fraxel Laser
Use of Hydroquinone 4% after Fraxel Laser may be started at approximately 10 to 14 days post treatment, particularly if used in combination with a retinoid cream. The key word has been mentioned already: re-epithelialization. If it has occurred, if your skin has healed post Fraxel, then you may start your creams. Only your doctor will determine if this process has taken place completely once she/he evaluates you in your Fraxel follow up visit.
+1
Resuming Hydroquinone 4% and Retinol After Fractionated Laser Resurfacing
You may begin using Hydroquinone 4% after laser procedures once the skin has completely healed. Following procedures such as the fractionated CO2 or YSGG the skin has usually re-epithelialized in about 7 days. Some individuals find the hydroquinone 4% a bit irritating and have to wait a few days longer. It is best to wait a few weeks before resuming your retinol, since this will be irritating if started too early. We typically have our patients resume their retinol about 4 weeks after their...
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+1
Hydroquinone for Hyperpigmentation After Fraxel
As long as your skin has healed from your Fraxel treatment, you can start hydroquinone anytime. Your skin barrier should be completely intact though without scabbing or peeling. Start slowly to avoid irritation and work up gradually to using it one or twice daily. Also don't forget to use a good sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more at all times.
Sheri G. Feldman, MD
Beverly Hills Dermatologist
Beverly Hills Dermatologist