Where Can I Buy Hydroquinone Creams?

Question

Im from the Philippines and I want to know where can I buy that cream. I read it from the other reviews that this can lighten scars like mine having brownish scar.

Jason Hess, MD · Answer

You can actually by hydroquinone over the counter without a prescription at CVS, Walgreens, etc., but only the 2% strength is available.  Prescription strength starts at 4%.  Some doctors find a combination of medications to be more effective at lightening skin.  Hydroquinone can be combined with kojic acid, tretinoin, and hydrocortisone to improve lightening efficacy.  This is created at a compounding pharmacy where potency and ingredients can be varied as directed by your doctor.  Usually a dermatologist or plastic surgeon will prescribe this formula.  It may also be available in prescription retail products such as those provided by Obagi.  Good luck!!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

There are many options for lightening creams.  I emphasize that patients should begin a HQ and non-HQ regimen, such as that found in Melarase AM and Melarase PM.  Both creams can be found in the Phillippines.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

We recommend Melarase creams to our patients who have hyperpigmentation. There is a push" towards non-hydroquinone creams and we advocate both hydroquinone and non-hydroquinne regimens for optimal reduction of hyperpigmentation in our practice. We recommend the Revitalization Mini Kit to our patients.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Hydroquinones over 2% can only be prescribed from a doctor's office.  My office compounds for patients higher strength hydroquinones with Retin-A for even more lightening effect. Just remember to use sunscreen with any of these agents.

Steven Hacker, MD · Answer

The effective percentage for bleaching cream is 4 % (or higher) and that is prescription. It requires a doctor's visit and then can be purchased at most pharmacies.

Where Can I Buy Hydroquinone Creams?

Answers (6)

Answer: You can purchase hydroquinones over the counter from any pharmacy

Answer: You can purchase hydroquinones over the counter from any pharmacy

Answer: Hydroquinone 4 % is prescription

Answer: Hydroquinone 4 % is prescription

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Skin Lightening

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Where Can I Buy Hydroquinone Creams?

Answers (6)

Answer: You can purchase hydroquinones over the counter from any pharmacy

Answer: You can purchase hydroquinones over the counter from any pharmacy

Answer: Hydroquinone 4 % is prescription

Answer: Hydroquinone 4 % is prescription

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Skin Lightening

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.