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The dark color seems to suggest that the product has undergone oxidation. While it is probably not dangerous to apply, I would not recommend it.Good luck.
This product contains hydroquinone and Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an unstable compound and oxidizes readily. This most likely accounts for the brown discoloration. While I doubt whether it is harmful, it probably has lost some potency. This is a prescription product due to its containing 4% Hydroquinone. It would be a good idea to ask the physician who prescribed it for another bottle if it was received in that condition. (By the way, we once carried Skinceuticals, many of whose products contained Vitamin C. Sometimes this would oxidize similarly and turn brown. The rep said that it kept its potency, but frankly I did not believe her.)
Patients on the Obagi system may feel dry and flaky for a long period of time. To ease the discomfort, we advise patients to begin a ceramide cream such as Elevase Moisture Booster to help strengthen the skin's natural moisture barrier. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles
As an excellent alternative to the Obagi program, most of our clinic's patients use Melarase creams as they perform superiorly and are well tolerated. Raffy Karamanoukian MD FACSLos Angeles
Obagi is incredibly effective when used correctly. In my practice, we prescribe and carefully follow our patients to achieve wonderful results. There are Obagi products that do not require a prescription. Those with medically regulated ingredients or products that the FDA has deemed require...