Rx

Hydroquinone cream 4% for melasma & dark spots

4.8
26,564 Nurx Reviews
Based on all Nurx reviews, not any one product

Hydroquinone brightens dark spots caused by melasma by treating discoloration at its source.*

Melasma
Topical cream

$30/month

Treatment requires an online consultation with a Nurx medical provider. Medication cost may vary based on prescribed treatment for your individual needs. Medications shipped and billed quarterly. Price not guaranteed; additional costs apply, including consultation and support fee.

How hydroquinone treats melasma*

  • Reduces dark spots caused by melasma
  • Reduces hyperpigmentation and uneven pigmentation
  • Reduces skin discoloration
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DID YOU KNOW?

70% decrease

in hyperpigmentation or dark spots after 8 weeks*

Real patient stories

The science behind it

Fact 01

Treats discoloration at the source

Hydroquinone treats discoloration at its source by decreasing the number of melanocytes, which make melanin.

Fact 02

Reduces melanin

Melanin is the skin’s main pigment, so by reducing it in your trouble areas, you can also reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

Fact 03

Visible results over time

Generally, it takes about four weeks to start seeing results, which should continue to improve for up to three months (at which point it’s recommended that you take a break from use).*

How to use hydroquinone

Consistency is key to maximizing the effectiveness of your melasma treatment.

Drug facts

TIP 1

Apply twice a day (we recommend applying after you wash your face in the morning and at night).

TIP 2

Before sun exposure, apply sunscreen as hydroquinone† can make skin more sensitive to the sun.

TIP 3

It’s recommended that you do not use hydroquinone for more than 3 months at a time.

How Nurx works

1

Request treatment

Complete our online medical consultation, which asks questions about your health history and skin concerns.

2

Connect with a provider

After evaluating your consultation, a provider licensed in your state will prescribe treatment (if clinically appropriate).

3

Get it delivered

We’ll send a 3-month supply to your doorstep and check in with you to see how it’s working. Pause or cancel anytime.

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Why Nurx?

Affordable

Affordable out of pocket pricing

Convenient

Free shipping & pause or cancel anytime

Personalized

Providers help you find the right treatment

Supportive

Unlimited messaging for any questions, anytime

Common questions

  • What does hydroquinone do to your skin?

    Hydroquinone helps to lighten areas of your skin that are darker than your normal skin tone. It helps with melasma, a condition caused by hormonal changes such as pregnancy (sometimes referred to as the “pregnancy mask”) and is characterized by darker skin patches on the forehead, upper lip, cheeks and nose. It also helps with post-inflammatory marks for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and even old bug bites.

  • Does hydroquinone have any side effects?

    Hydroquinone is generally well tolerated and considered safe for your skin. However, it is possible to experience some adverse effects like skin irritation, dryness, redness, and stinging. Hydroquinone may very rarely produce exogenous ochronosis, a gradual blue-black darkening of the skin. If this condition occurs, discontinue treatment and consult your physician. The majority of patients developing this condition are Black, but it may also occur in Caucasians and Hispanics. Limiting use of this medication to 3 months at a time with a break of 6 to 9 months in between reduces the risk of this side effect.

  • Is it bad to use hydroquinone everyday?

    To see the best skin-brightening results, you should use hydroquinone cream twice a day. If you’re not consistent with your application, it may take longer for you to see a difference—if you see one at all.

    Hydroquinone will only inhibit the production of melanin while it’s actively in the skin, so reapplying is the best way to keep the depigmentation process going so you see a reduction in hyperpigmentation and dark spots.

    However, most medical providers recommend you use hydroquinone for no longer than 3 months, because with prolonged use it can actually make dark patches worse. Your medical provider may prescribe you a 3-month dose of hydroquinone, then switch you to other medications that are clinically proven to treat uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation like azelaic acid or tretinoin to maintain your results.

  • How long does it take hydroquinone to work?

    It usually takes about 4 weeks to start seeing results from hydroquinone topical cream. These results should continue to improve until 3 months after you’ve started treatment. At that point, most doctors recommend taking a 6-9 month break to give your melanocytes a chance to stabilize before continuing treatment.

  • What skin conditions does hydroquinone help with?

    Hydroquinone is recommended for skin conditions like melasma, age spots, and acne scars. It can also help treat post-inflammatory marks for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and even old bug bites.

  • What precautions should I take when using hydroquinone?

    Do not use benzoyl peroxide products when using hydroquinone, since this can cause a temporary staining of the skin.

    It is important to note that the sun can have unfortunate interactions with topical hydroquinone. Too much sun stimulates your body to produce more melanin, which could cancel out the results of your hydroquinone treatment. To avoid this, we recommend using sun protection every time you're outside. Try at least SPF 30 sunscreen, wear a hat that shades your face, and stay in the shade during the mid-day hours when the sun is its harshest.

  • Can I use this medication if I am pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive?

    No, hydroquinone should not be used by patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive. If this applies to you, then your provider may help you find an alternative treatment that is safe to use.

DR. PETER YOUNG, MEDICAL DIRECTOR

Meet your medical team

Peter Young, MD is the Medical Director for Nurx’s Dermatology specialty. Dr. Young is a board-certified dermatologist who advises the Nurx medical team on how to provide the highest quality of care for dermatology conditions through telehealth.

†Hydroquinone 4%, Rx only, is indicated for hyperpigmentation associated with melasma. Hydroquinone may cause side effects, including skin peeling, flaking and irritation. If you would like to learn more about Hydroquinone, please see the full prescription information, here. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit MedWatch: HTTPS://WWW.FDA.GOV/SAFETY/MEDWATCH /default.htm or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
*Individual results may vary.
‡The information provided here is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely upon the content provided here for specific medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your provider.
◊Services not offered in every state. Medications prescribed only if clinically appropriate, based on completion of the required consultation.

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