Can I use Hydroquinone during laser hair removal?

Question

Is it ok to use hydroquinone 4% in between appointments of laser hair removal? Is this drug safe to lighten the pubic area? If not what other topical treatments can be done for lightening the pubic area? What's the best product from reducing hyperpigmentation from acne scars or those left by pseudofolliculitis?

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hydroquinones work by blocking one of the steps in the metabolic pathway of melanocyte activity. These prescription medications are often called skin "bleaching" agents, but they DON'T work like Chloroxing dirty socks! They simply "slow down" the metabolism of the pigment cells in the skin. Avoiding any kind of ultraviolet exposure (sun or tanning bed) is critical as well.

	Since post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a normal response to ANY kind of inflammation-producing cause (including laser hair removal), the balance is always between adequate energy for good hair removal and trying to minimize the collateral damage to the skin. In addition to hydroquinones, topical steroid creams (ask your hair removal doctor--laser hair removal MUST be supervised by a physician, even if it's at a spa) can help to reduce the inflammatory response that can occur with acne scars, pseudofolliculitis, AND laser heir removal energy.

Leyda Elizabeth Bowes, MD · Answer

The Use of Hydroquinone creams between Laser Hair Removal sessions is adequate. This is particularly helpful if treating cases of 'ingrown hairs' or folliculitis, where a darker color has developed in the areas of inflammation. Make sure there is no irritation in your skin from the laser hair removal (depending on the type of laser and intensity of treatment utilized), prior to starting the bleaching creams.

Beverly Johnson, MD (retired) · Answer

This is entirely appropriate to do. By all means, get the best hydroquinoine that your physician recommends. Dont forget to apply the sunscreen  to the entire area each and every day. Good luck with your treatments!

Can I use Hydroquinone during laser hair removal?

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Can I use Hydroquinone during laser hair removal?

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