Skin Lightening with Physician Strength Hydroquinone
By Peter T. Pacik, MD, FACS
Physician Strength Hydroquinone Effective for Lightening Skin
Many of our patients exhibit hyperpigmentaion (sun spots, freckles, age spots, etc.) that are caused by hormonal factors and/or sun damage. It is most often seen on those areas of the body that are exposed to the sun (face, chest, and hands). Hyperpigmentation is not a medically harmful condition.
Dermatologist Should Check Skin Once a Year
It is advisable, however, to have darkened skin patches checked by a physician to make sure they are not a type of skin cancer (melanoma). Usually people seek treatment for hyperpigmentation because it is cosmetically displeasing to them. Physician strength skin lightening products can reduce the unwanted excess color of hyperpigmented skin patches. Skin Lightening with Physician Strength Hydroquinone Products Effective
Any skin color that has blotchy areas of hyperpigmentation is suitable for treatment with hydroquinones. The color of the irregular patches of excess pigment varies from brown in Caucasions to blue-black in Asians and Afro-Americans. Hydroquinone is one of our “older” drugs in that it has been used for many years, giving us a level of comfort that is both safe and effective for skin lightening. The 4% hydroquinone is considered physician-strength and it is this strength that has been found to be most effective in resolving pigmentary problems. Hydroquinone works by interfering with cells’ enzymatic process of manufacturing too much melanin,the pigment portion of your skin. By controlling this process, we are able to achieve a more uniform skin tone. Depending on your skin condition and your desired results, you may choose to use one of the following products:
For patients who only have mild sun damage and hyperpigmentation and who do not need “anti-wrinkling” medication, we recommend the following skin lightening products: - Obagi-C Rx Complete System which contains 4% hydroquinone, 7% glycolic acid, with Vitamin C & E and sunscreen
- Kinerase Pro-Therapy Rx Skin Lightener Bleaching Cream containing 4% hydroquinone, 10% glycolic acid (highest contained in a hydroquinone product), Vitamin C & E, and SPF 15 broad spectrum sun protection.
For patients with more severe sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles we strongly recommend the following skin lightening product: - Obagi Nu-Derm Advanced Skin Care System which is extremely effective for blotchy hyperpigmentation and sun damage.
  Before (left photo): Severe sun damage and mottled hyperpigmentation. Obagi Nu-Derm Advanced Skincare System recommended with 0.025% Tretinoin.
After (right photo): 6 week follow-up. Excellent results after only one skin cycle. Note improved complexion and reduction of cheek wrinkles.   Before (left photo): Severe hyperpigmentation, melasma and acne. Hyperpigmentation may be hormonal. Obagi Nu-Derm Advanced Skincare System recommended with 0.025% Tretinoin.
After (right photo): 26 week follow-up. Excellent results after 4 skin cycles. Patient now on maintenance program. Melasma has completely disappeared. Patient very pleased with the results of the Obagi Nu-Derm Advanced Skincare System. Sunscreens are a Must when Using Hydroquinone in Your Skin Care Program
Hyperpigmented skin patches may become more pronounced when skin is exposed to the sun. This happens because the skin's pigment, melanin, absorbs the energy of the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays in order to protect the skin from overexposure. Skin tanning occurs as a result of this process, causing hyperpigmented areas to become even darker. Minimizing your exposure to sunlight can help prevent further darkening of existing hyperpigmented patches, as well as the formation of new ones. Sunscreens in Advanced Skin Starter Kits from Skincare-MD To protect your skin, we recommend the use of a sunscreen product year-round with an SPF of at least 15 that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. All of our Advanced Skin Care Starter Kits, including the MD Forte Starter Systems, Obagi-C Rx Complete System, and the Obagi Nu-Derm Advanced Skin Care System, contain an effective sunscreen. NOTE: Hydroquinone does not work on red skin tones which are usually due to blood vessels such as in hemangioma, port wine stain, prominent capillaries, and rosacea. Advisory: Do Not Use if Pregnant or Nursing
The safety of topical hydroquinoine use during pregnancy or in children (12 years and under) has not been established. As a result, hydroquinoine products should not be used in pregnant women. It is also not known whether topical hydroquinoine is absorbed or excreted in human milk. Therefore, caution is advised when used by a nursing mother. Some people are sensitive to hydroquinoines. If in doubt, apply a small amount of lightening cream or gel and check in 24 hours. Minor redness is acceptable, however, itching, blistering or excessive inflammation would be reasons to avoid the drug. If no lightening is noted after 2 months of treatment, the medication should be discontinued. Our Guarantee to Our Customers
Unlike other online stores we actually test every product we sell. We use these products in our practice daily, which is why we can stand behind each product we sell. It is for this reason that we offer fewer products than some other online stores. We know our products, we know the correct indications for their use, and we know what they are capable of achieving. We also know that not every product works for each individual. Therefore, we offer a no questions asked money-back guarantee if you are not 100% satisfied. Exceptional Customer Service and Customer Support
Skincare-md.com is more than a store in that we offer a great deal of educational content on our website; and most importantly, we encourage you to call our office if you have any questions. We will be happy to talk to you about your skin type and condition and make product recommendations. Our MD Forte, Obagi Nu-Derm, Obagi-C Rx and Kinerase Advanced Skin Care Programs are all excellent for skin rejuvenation.We can help you decide which skin care program would be best for you. We are available during office hours Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. EST at 1-877-415-0600 or (603) 296-4920. You may also email us at info@skincare-md.com if you have any questions.
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