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With all the different factors that can damage the skin, the next thing you know you start to experience skin related programs like freckles, age spots, melasma and acne scars. How do you get rid of them? Perhaps you have read about hydroquinone. But just before you decide to try what this offer, it helps that you know what it is and how it really works.
Hydroquinone Overview
Hydroquinone is a bleaching agent that is widely used by people who want to lighten specific areas. Many say that this can effectively lighten dark spots. For those who are suffering from melasma, acne scars and freckles, hydroquinone is said to be one of the most effective skin lightening agent that you can find. Many have been selling hydroquinone that may contain from 2% to 4%. In New Zealand, the concentration is up to 2%. For those who have already tried using hydroquinone, they have a lot of good things to say. But how does it really work and is it really that effective?
How Does it Work?
With all the acclaimed benefits and effectiveness of using hydroquinone, how does it work? What it does is it decreases the production of melanin which results to the darkening of the skin. It also increases the breakdown of melanosomes. Since it inhibits tyrosinase, it stops the enzymes that are known to produce melanin. By applying hydroquinone on the skin, it can effectively lighten dark spots, scars and melasma appearing on the face. This explains why there are many who are interested to try hydroquinone.
Is It Truly Effective?
Many have been using hydroquinone. The question now is this really effective. Every person varies especially since people have different skin type and may respond differently. Basically, when you want to lighten your skin by using this option, you can see the significant improvements in just a matter of 4 weeks. Depending on the person, it may even last longer. Usually, the bleaching effect would take effect in a matter of 3 months.
The effectiveness of using hydroquinone would depend on several factors. As such, when you are undergoing the treatment, you need to avoid the sun. Make sure that you use protective clothing. It is also strongly recommended that you apply sunscreen protection when you go outdoors. All throughout the duration of the treatment, avoid having a tan. It is also essential that you apply hydroquinone as directed until such a time that you get the results. Afterwards, you can apply hydroquinone to maintain the results.
How to use Hydroquinone?
In as much as hydroquinone is really effective in lightening the skin to remove dark spots and, not everyone can use hydroquinone. Prior to using it, you need to test your skin first. Some people really have sensitive skin. Have a sensitivity test first. Apply the cream to a target area. If there is no itching within 24 hours then you can start with the treatment.
You can now proceed with the treatment. Make sure that your face is clean and completely dry. Apply a small amount of cream to a hyperpigmented skin. Use this cream twice a day and gently rub it on the skin.
In applying hydroquinone, you need to apply just enough to cover the area. As much as possible, do not apply it on normal area. After application, wash your hands well as they may lighten. Avoid contact with the eyes and mouth. When you use hydroquinone, avoid using peroxide products. If you are applying sunscreen, make sure that you apply hydroquinone first then wait for a few minutes before you apply sunscreen or moisturizer.
Are There Side Effects?
Hydroquinone cream is widely used. Depending on the skin type, some may experience mild skin irritation. This is one of the minor side effects. You may experience mild skin irritation or your skin might also become red. If this continues, stop using hydroquinone. If ever you experience major side effects like itching, crusting and severe burning, consult your doctor right away so you can get the right medical advice. Using hydroquinone for too long can also result to adverse reactions so be sure to follow your doctor’s prescriptions.
