Where Can I Get HQ 8%?

Although some physicians prefer higher dose hydroquinone, others like myself believe that hydroquinone is not better when used in higher concentrations.  With this belief, I advocate tyrosinase inhibition by multiple active ingredients rather than high dose hydroquinone. There are many combination tyrosinase inhibitors, including my preference which is Melarase AM and Melarase PM. 

4% hydroquinone is the highest concentration that may be obtained through pharmeceutical companies.  8% hydroquinone is the highest strength that can be prepared (due to chemical properties of the drug) and many compounding pharmacies will prepare it with a physician's order.  If you live in Houston and need treatment of hyperpigmentation, you may wish to consult with Dr. Paul Friedman.

8% hydroquinone can only be obtained form a compounding pharmacy.  You must get a prescription for a physician. 

Dr. ES

Hydroquinone 8% is Prescription Strength and should be applied to dark patches or hyperpigmented scars after proper examination by a board-certified physician. 

The highest percentage of hydroquinone (HQ) in topical medications that are produced in the US is 4%.  To get a higher percentage, your doctor would need to have the medication made by a compounding pharmacy.  Care must be taken with higher percentage HQ creams, as there are numerous reports of paradoxical hyperpigmentation, called exogenous ochronosis, that can occur with prolonged use of higher percentage HQ creams.  Please have your treatment monitored by a board certified dermatologist.  

Most full compounding pharmacies can make a Hydroquinone to your desired strength, and common strengths range from 6-10%.  Most Dermatologist have a good working relationship with some of these pharmacies.  Note, these are NOT your big box pharmacies, but more of the "mom and pop" shops.