hydroquinone therapy

Hydroquinone is also called a ``skin whitening agent'' because it has a powerful whitening effect.It can be expected to suppress the action of melanin, the pigment that causes age spots, to reduce or eliminate age spots.In addition to improving existing stains, it is also effective in preventing future stains.

Mechanism of action of hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is known to inhibit melanin production and has been used in dermatology for many years as an effective treatment for skin pigmentation. Melanin is the main element that determines skin color, and when produced in excess, it causes pigmentation such as age spots and freckles. Hydroquinone inhibits the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase, which plays an important role in the process of producing melanin, thereby suppressing melanin production and promoting improvement of existing pigmentation.

Effects that can be expected from hydroquinone

Proper concentration, use, and storage of hydroquinone are important.

In Japan, the ban on its use as a pharmaceutical was lifted in 2001, and since then it has been prescribed by many medical institutions. Correct treatment and UV protection are essential. Hydroquinone is also sensitive to light and heat, making it unsuitable for long-term storage. Therefore, it is recommended to keep it refrigerated and it is important to observe the expiration date.

Differences between over-the-counter products and prescription products at medical institutions

Currently, there are commercially available hydroquinone products that can be purchased from pharmacies such as drug stores and online shopping sites such as Amazon, but their concentrations are either lower than those prescribed by medical institutions or are uncertain. . If high concentrations of hydroquinone are used inappropriately, there is a risk of side effects such as inflammation and vitiligo. On the other hand, if the concentration is too low, you may not be able to achieve the desired effect.

Recommended for prescription in clinic

To avoid these risks and obtain the maximum effect of hydroquinone, it is recommended that it be prescribed by a medical institution. Consulting a specialist and receiving guidance on the appropriate concentration and usage method according to your skin condition and needs will lead to safe and effective use.

Hydroquinone is known to have a high whitening effect on pigmentation such as age spots and acne scars, but it is an ingredient that requires caution when used. Here, we will focus on two side effects that require special attention: ``skin redness/inflammation'' and ``vitiligo.''

Skin redness/inflammation

After using hydroquinone, your skin may feel red or irritated. This may be because hydroquinone is reacting and irritating sensitive areas of your skin. Redness and irritation are common immediately after starting use or when your skin is not used to hydroquinone.

White spot

Hydroquinone use may cause vitiligo to appear on the skin. This is a phenomenon where hydroquinone suppresses melanin production in the skin too much, causing areas of the skin to appear lighter than normal. Long-term use and high concentrations of hydroquinone are thought to increase this risk.

Example of usage(Stain case)

• Face wash

  When washing your face, wash gently with plenty of foam.Rubbing your skin too hard can cause pigmentation.

  

• At. Apply TA Pure Skin Lotion

  Apply At. TA Pure Skin Lotion all over your face.We recommend using a commercially available mask sheet or a home iontophoresis device, as this will allow the product to penetrate the skin more easily.

  

• apply hydroquinone

  Apply hydroquinone to cover the stained area.Apply as thinly and widely as possible.The key is to apply it in a circular motion rather than rubbing it into your skin.After that, be sure to moisturize your skin thoroughly with the milky lotion or cream you normally use.

  

• Always apply sunscreen in the morning

  The skin in the area where hydroquinone is applied is more susceptible to UV rays than usual.Be sure to apply sunscreen (SPF 20 or higher, PA+ or higher) when going out.Don't forget to apply it indoors and in your car.

• Redness and flakiness will appear about a week after the treatment.
• After a few more days, the skin around the reddened area will start to peel off.
• The redness of the skin will subside in about 2 to 3 weeks.
• Store hydroquinone in the refrigerator and use it within a month.After one month, the patient will come back to see the doctor, and after checking the condition of the patient's skin, we will prepare a new formulation and prescribe a new one.

*Hydroquinone is uniquely formulated at our hospital.As long-term storage is not effective, please be sure to use it within one month and discard it at home after that.
*<Side effects> Rarely, rash or skin irritation may occur.One in several people is allergic to hydroquinone and cannot use it.If you suspect redness, irritation, swelling, itching, allergic symptoms, pigmentation, color loss, dryness, etc., stop using the product immediately and consult a doctor.