Whiten unwanted pigmentation with hydroquinone in Singapore.
Hydroquinone (hi-dro-kwi-non) is a skin-whitening agent that is also present in plants and animals. It is used topically to lighten areas of darkened skin or hyperpigmentation.
Hydroquinone (up to 4 percent concentration) can only be prescribed by a licensed doctor as a cream, emulsion, gel, or solution. It is available as a topical on its own, or as an added ingredient in other regulated prescribed products.
To know if hydroquinone is suitable for you, schedule a consultation with us.
Hydroquinone works by inhibiting melanocytes in the skin. Melanocytes are the cells that make melanin, which is the pigment that produces your skin tone.
When you have darkened areas of skin or hyperpigmentation (i.e. melasma, liver spots also known as sun spots or solar lentigines, freckles, café-au-lait spots), these areas have more melanin due to an increase in melanocyte activity.
Hence, by limiting melanocyte activity in the treated area, hydroquinone allows your skin to become more even-toned over time.
On average, it takes about 4 weeks for the skin lightening to take effect. Depending on the type and severity of hyperpigmentation, skin tone of the patient, as well as sun exposure post-treatment, it may take several months of consistent use before you can see full results.
Some patients may prefer alternative treatments like anti-pigmentation laser, Ethosome Gold PTT and RF Gold Microneedling (Sylfirm X, Morpheus 8, Secret RF).
Hydroquinone can be used to treat skin concerns related to hyperpigmentation, including but not limited to:
Yes, when prescribed by a licensed doctor. Historically, there have been a number of safety concerns about hydroquinone. But the U.S. Food and Drug Administration confirmed that hydroquinone only be prescribed by a doctor at a maximum of 4 percent concentration.
Some side effects such as dryness and irritation are not unusual, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. We recommend applying a moisturiser after. These side effects may also taper off as your skin adjusts to the ingredient.
If any of the following effects persist or become severe, consult your doctor:
Stop using hydroquinone and consult your doctor if the following occurs:
A very serious allergic reaction to hydroquinone is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you exhibit symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Generally, we recommend applying hydroquinone to the affected area 1 to 2 times a day for 3 to 6 months. If improvements are not seen after 2 to 3 months of consistent use, discontinue use.
At SL Aesthetic Clinic, we prefer using hydroquinone as a concentrated treatment to address an immediate hyperpigmentation concern. We do not offer it as a means to maintain results for the long term.
Hydroquinone is a viable treatment of choice for those suffering from pigmentary problems such as melasma, sun spots, age spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and more.
Pre-treatment instructions: ensure that you’re in a good state of health. Always disclose your full medical history during consultation (e.g., asthma).
Women should also tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning for pregnancy, or are breast-feeding.
Inform your doctor if you have other skin conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis) or have any unusual or allergic reactions to any ingredients or topicals.
Post-treatment instructions: apply a moisturiser after treatment. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths, and sunlamps. Always use sunscreen. And wear protective clothing over treated areas, if possible.
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