I just purchased hydroquinone 4%. I just purchased HQ 4% and I am wondering how to apply it in the right way.

Question

I have malasma on my face. Also, I use Retin A .1% every other night. How long can I use it without side effects?

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

HQ is usually applied to entire face am and pm as tolerated. When using a Retin A with your HQ it is always suggested to blend equal parts in pm. Skin may feel dry and tight, this is a great time to apply a hydrator to help. Always remember when using a HQ you must be extremely careful in the sun and apply a SPF of 30 or more. HQ should only be used for a period of 5 months then ask your professional skin care provider to direct you to a good Vitamin C for maintenance. Hope this is helpful and here is to a brighter new you!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, Melasma needs a combination approach to get the best improvement and will need a series of treatments. In our practice, we combine Clear + brilliant, peels, microneedling(/RF)/PRP, aerolase, and sometimes erbium laser (coollaser) to get the best results. See an expert for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I would suggest doing a fractional treatment for melasma.  Apply hydroquinone morning and evening two weeks prior to your treatment.  The fractional treatment would help to suppress the discoloration and improve texture of your skin along with shrinking your pores.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Dark pigmentation on the skin can be due to melasma, age spots, and sun damage. Melasma is a specific hormonally-influenced skin condition in which pigmentation is deposited by overactive pigment cells in your skin. 
  
In our office, we individualize treatments for melasma and skin discoloration based on skin type, skin complexion, hormonal influences, and ethnicity. 
  
Treatments for melasma begin with Melarase creams as follows: 
  
MelaClenz
  Melarase AM
  Melarase PM
  Melapads
  Replenish Retinoid Cream
  Additional therapies include fractional laser, fractional RF, Covalent peels, and LED microneedling with Replenish serum. The video demonstrates the clear and brilliant laser that is used alongside Melarase creams. 
  
Best, 
  
Dr. Karamanoukian
  
Realself100 Surgeon

David E. Berman, MD (retired) · Answer

HQ alone will probably not be enough. Picosure is much more effective than any other treatment for Melasma. Plan at least 3 sessions, each spaced a month apart. You should stop the Retin A and HQ 3 days before your laser session.david berman md

I just purchased hydroquinone 4%. I just purchased HQ 4% and I am wondering how to apply it in the right way.

Answers (6)