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Hydroquinone is a powerful skin-bleaching cream that usually comes in two different strengths: 2 percent, which is available over the counter, and 4 percent, which is available by prescription only. For the best results, apply the lotion to the affected area twice daily. Use your finger to rub in the cream in a circular motion. Note that after prolonged use hydroquinone can irritate skin, causing it to become red and inflamed.
Hydroquinone is the only cream recognized by the FDA as a certified "bleaching agent." It works by blocking tyrosinase, an enzyme that causes increased melanin in the skin. It is available by prescription under the trade name Lustra, or over the counter from Murad Skincare Products as the Murad Age Spot & Pigment Lightening Gel. - Kojic acid also works by blocking tyrosinase activity in the cells. It is a common ingredient in many over the counter skin-lightening products. Kojic acid is derived from fungal metabolism. This is the ideal product for people who may be sensitive to hydroquinone because it does not lead to irritation and redness. Moreover, it is a natural plant extract (unlike hydroquinone, which is made from different chemicals). Kojic acid must be applied topically to the areas of hyperpigmentation and thoroughly rubbed into the skin. Try Donell Lightening Gel, which contains kojic acid as an active ingredient.
- Like kojic acid, licorice extract is a popular ingredient used in skin-lightening and -brightening agents. The active ingredient in licorice extract is glabridin, which works by inhibiting tyrosinase to erase excess melanin in the skin. It is particularly well-regarded as a bleaching product in Asian countries. Licorice extract is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, so it soothes the skin. Furthermore, it is safe to use because it is taken from a natural plant. Apply twice daily for best results, rubbing in the lotion using a circular motion. Try Licorice Extract cream from Herb Pharm.
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It is imperative that these bleaching and lightening agents be used only until the skin-whitening effects have been realized. Continued use of the products after the problem has been resolved may result in areas that are lighter than the rest of the skin. It make take 4 to 6 months of continued use of any of these products before desired results are achieved.
Apply lotions and creams directly onto the dark spots, and avoid using them on areas that are not discolored. Wear sunscreen every day over the lightening agents. Exposing your skin to the sun's harmful rays will cause the pigmented areas to darken even further.
