Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS· Last reviewed
Hydroquinone lightens dark patches (melasma) in short, supervised courses. It belongs to the Skin (dermatology) medicine — advanced group. These treat eczema, psoriasis, acne, pigmentation and fungal skin problems, mostly applied to the skin.
Use sun protection with retinoids and hydroquinone
Avoid strong products on broken skin
Follow the course; some take weeks to work
When to see a doctor urgently
Severe burning, blistering or allergic rash
Spreading infection
Worsening despite treatment
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of hydroquinone depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
How long do skin creams take to work?
Acne and pigmentation creams often take 6–12 weeks; fungal and eczema treatments vary. Consistency matters — do not stop too early.
Can I use hydroquinone long-term?
No — it is used in short supervised courses for pigmentation, as long unsupervised use can cause side effects. A dermatologist should guide it.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.