Beauty Elixir

HQ

Hydroquinone: what to mix it with

The strongest topical depigmenting agent, used for melasma and stubborn dark spots. It blocks melanin production, but it must be used in short, supervised courses: long-term use can cause irritation and, rarely, ochronosis (blue-black darkening).

Typical strength
2% – 4% (prescription in India)
Best time
PM
Irritation
Price in India
₹150 – ₹600
Helps with
Pigmentation
Pregnancy
Usually avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding

How to use Hydroquinone

Use only under a dermatologist's guidance, typically nightly on the dark patches for up to 3 months, then take a break. Strict daily sunscreen is required or results reverse.

Pairs beautifully with

Sunscreen

Don't mix with

Benzoyl Peroxide

Safe to layer with

Retinol Adapalene Vitamin C Niacinamide Glycolic Acid Lactic Acid Mandelic Acid Salicylic Acid PHA Azelaic Acid Hyaluronic Acid Peptides Copper Peptides Ceramides Bakuchiol Tranexamic Acid Alpha Arbutin Kojic Acid Centella Asiatica Squalane Vitamin E Ferulic Acid Snail Mucin Panthenol Tretinoin Retinal Sulfur Tea Tree Oil Aloe Vera Licorice Extract Urea Glutathione Zinc PCA Polyglutamic Acid

Guides

Ingredients for dark spots, tanning & pigmentation Is Hydroquinone safe in pregnancy?

Hydroquinone vs alternatives

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