IS HYDROQUINONE BAD FOR THE SKIN?

Hydroquinone is a chemical compound also known as benzene or quinol. It is a type of skin-lightening agent which bleaches the skin. It can be used to purposely lighten the skin or treat different kinds of hyperpigmentation issues.

Hydroquinone has been used traditionally in the lightening of some dark patches of skin which are also referred to as liver spots, age spots, hyperpigmentation, freckles, melasma caused as a result of pregnancy, or birth control pills, hormone medicine, or any other form of injury to the skin.

WHY IS HYDROQUINONE BAD?

Hydroquinione can trigger fatal allergic responces

There is a very serious allergic reaction to hydroquinone which usually prompts victims into seeking immediate medical attention. The allergic reaction can trigger rashes, itching, and swelling of the face, tongue, and throat, severe dizziness, and issues with breathing. These are symptoms that should prompt emergency services.

Hydroquinone can cause skin problems

Using hydroquinone can also cause severe skin dryness, cracking, and bleeding, blisters or oozing or even blue or black discoloration of your skin. The longer it is being used the greater the chance of seeing these side effects.

Sensitivity to sun

Using hydroquinone can cause your skin to react badly to the sun, which can cause a higher degree of burning than necessary. This will then lead to more un-natural darkening of the skin and a further desire to use this product.

HOW DOES HYDROQUINONE END UP IN A PRODUCT?

Hydroquinone is a popular active ingredient in many over the counter and prescription cream that claims to lighten the skin. It is actually a very effective ingredient in that it does what it is supposed to do.

As in everything else, you have to weigh the pros and cons of using this product. It is is not advised to use it for the long term as the side effects are more dramatic when used for a longer period of time.

Since many are interested in lightening the skin to meet societal pressures some industries find creative ways of adding hydroquinone into body creams and lotions. When i doubt, read the label.

WHICH PRODUCT CAN IT BE FOUND IN?

Hydroquinone can be found in virtually any kind of skin products. It can be found in creams, lotions, serums, and even soaps. Most over the counter products have a 2% concentration but higher concentrations are available with a prescription.

HOW CAN YOU RECOGNIZE HYDROQUINONE ON LABELS?

Hydroquinone is normally stated on the label as the active ingredient. In this case avoiding it is easy. Hydroquinone is sometimes highly sought after by consumers so finding it on a label shouldn’t be challenging.