More concerns about hydroquinones!

This is a follow-up to last week's question about side effects of 4% hyrdroquinone. You mentioned people from Asia and Africa are more prone to this complication. Is this because of use of high concentration of hydroquinone for a long time or just their skin type. I have PIH (due to hair removal by tweezers) on my upper lip and my dermatologist prescribed 4% hydroquinone once a day in the evening. Before that I used Ambi for 3 months twice a day. There has been improvement and it continues to improve since I started hydroquinone, but I am concerned that I have been on it too long. My dermatologist doesn't seem to be too concerned about ochronosis. I am Asian Indian. Thank you very much for your input.

I agree with your dermatologist.  Ochronosis is rare here and is linked to prolonged use of high concentrations most commonly found in other parts of the world.   Dr. I

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

Ask me your skincare question!

Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

  • All our content is written and researched by myself.
  • My medical office in Seattle has treated thousands of patients for 15+ years.
  • This site is not affiliated or financially tied to any product, treatment or device.
Ask Me Something
SkinTour Skincare
One of the best investments in your skin is your daily skincare. Why? Because you can prevent many problems with blotchy skin color, lack of glow, texture, some types of acne, and fine lines with good skincare products. You can also correct some of these problems with effective skincare products. Great skincare is often more expensive because quality ingredients are expensive. Some companies spend on research/development which benefits all of us and adds to the cost. Are they worth it? In general - yes! I have handpicked some of what I consider to be the best skin care products, and offer them for sale on SkinTour's shop. This is based on my team and I's testing and research at our clinic. Many of the products are in my own regimen. What could be better than using skin care products a dermatologist uses?!