Hydroquinone helps lighten the darkening of skin in certain skin conditions such as persistent freckles, age spots, and melasma (brown patches of skin usually on the face or neck during pregnancy).
Apply Hydroquinone exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more often or over a larger area than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is available as a cream and gel.
If you are using the cream or gel, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- Clean and dry the affected area before application.
- Rub the cream or gel gently on the skin until it disappears. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
- Wash your hands after using.
- Replace the cap of the tube.
Avoid contact with your eyes, mouth, or the inside of your nose. If this medicine gets into these areas, rinse immediately with water. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.
Do not apply on irritated skin.
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.
Do not use Hydroquinone if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or any of its ingredients.
Alert your doctor if you have abraded or sunburned skin as Hydroquinone may not be suitable for you.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
You may need to check the sensitivity of your skin before using Hydroquinone. Your doctor will advise you how to assess if you are sensitive to this medicine.
Hydroquinone may cause any of the following side effects: temporary reddening of the skin, mild burning or stinging sensation, and skin dryness or irritation.
This medicine may also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing when going outdoors. Avoid direct or prolonged exposure to the sun and ultraviolet (UV) lamps like tanning beds.
Using Hydroquinone cream/gel with high concentrations or for a long period of time may cause a bluish-black skin discolouration and grey-black clustered lesions on the skin. Alert your doctor immediately if you experience these skin discolourations.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Let your doctor know if you are using any other creams, ointments, lotions, or other medicines on the affected area.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Protect from light and moisture.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.