What is Hydroquinone? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated Aug 21, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Hydroquinone is a skin depigmentation medication that lightens unwanted dark patches on the skin (hyperpigmentation). It works by suppressing the skin’s production of melanin. Available in both prescription and over-the-counter formulations, hydroquinone doses are applied once or twice daily. Because of possible side effects, hydroquinone use should normally be stopped after two to three months.

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Hydroquinone overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Esoterica Fade Cream, Hydro-Q (Rx), Porcelana Skin Lightening Cream, Symba Skin Lightening, Vivant TrueTone

Generic Names:

  • Hydroquinone

Uses:

  • Lightens dark patches on the skin

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Depigmenting agent

Forms:

  • Cream, emulsion, gel, liquid 

How it’s taken:

  • On the skin

What is Hydroquinone used for?

Hydroquinone is a medication used to lighten unwanted dark patches of skin caused by pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone therapy, medications, freckling (ephelides), age (lentigo), or other benign causes.

What form(s) does Hydroquinone come in?

  • Cream

    • 2%

    • 4% (Rx)

  • Emulsion

    • 4% (Rx)

  • Gel

    • 2%

    • 4% (Rx)

  • Liquid

    • 4% (Rx)

What are common Hydroquinone dosages?

  • For skin lightening (Rx and OTC): Apply a thin layer to the affected skin once or twice daily for two (OTC) or three (Rx) months.

Hydroquinone images - What does Hydroquinone look like?

  • Hydroquinone
    28.35gm of 4% tube

  • Hydroquinone
    28.4gm of 4% tube

  • Hydroquinone
    28.35gm of 4% tube of cream

How to take Hydroquinone

  • Follow all the prescriber’s instructions when using prescription hydroquinone. Do not take more than prescribed or use it for longer than prescribed.

  • Follow the instructions on the label if you are using nonprescription hydroquinone.

  • Use only on the skin. 

    • Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, lips, and nose. 

    • Rinse thoroughly and contact a healthcare provider if contact does occur.

  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.

  • Apply a thin layer of the medicine with your finger to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • Wear sunscreen and avoid sunlamps. Hydroquinone will not work well if the affected area is exposed to UV light.

  • Read the package label for storage instructions. Most hydroquinone products can be stored at room temperature. Protect from sunlight.

    • Some hydroquinone products should be refrigerated when not in use.

What to do if you miss a dose of Hydroquinone

  • For prescription hydroquinone, ask the prescriber for medical advice on how to manage missed doses.

  • For OTC hydroquinone, apply a dose as soon as you can.

  • If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose.

  • Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Hydroquinone contraindications - Who shouldn't take Hydroquinone?

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. 

  • Do not use it if you have had an allergic reaction to hydroquinone or sulfites.

Hydroquinone warnings

  • Before starting hydroquinone, tell the prescriber if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • Protect the treated skin from sunlight or ultraviolet light.

    • Sunlight or ultraviolet light will make the medicine less effective and could cause rebound hyperpigmentation.

    • Use a high SPF sunscreen or cover the treated skin with protective clothing.

    • Do not use tanning beds or sunlamps.

  • Do not use this medicine for longer than two or three months.

    • After three months of treatment, hydroquinone treatment should be discontinued for at least two months.

    • If symptoms do not improve or get worse, do not use hydroquinone for longer than two months. Contact a doctor.

    • Long-term use of hydroquinone could cause the skin to turn reddish brown, gray-blue, blue-black, or other color.

    • For long-term maintenance treatment, the doctor may prescribe a maintenance dose where the medicine is only applied three times a week or only on the weekends.

  • Some hydroquinone products contain other ingredients that may make the skin more sensitive to sunlight.

  • Do not use hydroquinone on a child younger than 12 years of age except under a doctor’s supervision.

Hydroquinone interactions & what to avoid when taking Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone side effects - How does Hydroquinone make you feel?

Serious side effects

Stop using hydroquinone and contact a healthcare professional if you notice signs of a serious side effect, including:

  • Discoloration of the skin (reddish-brown, blue-black, or gray-blue)

  • Allergic reaction: Skin swelling, itching, hives, rash, blistering, severe skin irritation or pain

Less serious side effects

  • Skin irritation

  • Mild redness

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