Hydroquinone After Laser Hair Removal?

Question

I'm Arabic with fair skin and black hair just finished my first full body gentleLase hair removal session & my doctor prescribed me hydroquinone 2% to use for duration of 2 days after laser currently I have no pigmentation & I'm concerned about safety of hydroquinone and its need where no pigmentation is present Is it nessecary to use it ?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Skin brightening is sometimes needed with laser treatments. If you do not want to use Hydroquinone, the Melarase AM cream provides similar effect without the hydroquinone. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Todd C. Becker, MD, PhD · Answer

Hydroquinone is effective at decreasing excess melanin production. With laser hair removal the hair is heated, leading to destruction of the follicle. In the process, the heat can cause the surrounding pigment cells to increase pigment output. The hydroquinone is meant to decrease the potential for skin darkening. Short term use should not have an effect on normal surrounding skin.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Hydroquinones are frequently prescribed to type 3 or 4 skin type sometimes before and at times after laser hair removal. It is considered safe to use. If you are very concerned you should ask your treating physician if it is entirely necessary in your case. Please let me know how your treatments work out.

Hydroquinone After Laser Hair Removal?

Answers (3)