What is the redness after using hydroquinone cream?

Hello Dr. Irwin, I'm using hydroquine cream 2% for my brown spots on my nose & right cheek. I got redness by evening on those areas and at night when I use it. In the morning the redness will disappear and as the day goes on the redness begins. I'm using this cream for the last 10 days and this effect was from the 2nd day of application of the cream. Shall I stop using the cream? I'm 28yrs old and asian, in the day I use spf 30 sunscreen. Most of my work, I am exposed in the sun and I sweat a lot. Please reply fast.

Hydroquinone creams, whether used in 2%, 4% (prescription) strength or higher (available in Asia, Africa and South America) are irritating for many people. That irritation by itself often will make the pigment problem worse. If you are getting irritated from these, it’s best to stop using them and consult your doctor so you don’t make the pigment worse.


Dr. B I

 

Read Dr. Irwin’s article on Color and Texture Issues.

 

Learn more about Pigment Problems.

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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