brightening agent
Inhibits tyrosinase and is cytotoxic to melanocytes, suppressing melanin synthesis. Long-standing gold-standard topical depigmenting agent (typically 2–4%); OTC status is restricted in some regions.
| Concern | Strength | Studies | What the research says |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dark spots & hyperpigmentation | Excellent | — | HQ is effective for solar lentigines when combined with tretinoin and/or chemical exfoliation (AHAs). Simple isolated lentigines respond to laser, cryotherapy, or topical tretinoin monotherapy. HQ's use for lentigines… |
| Post-acne marks | Excellent | — | HQ 4% cream historically the standard for PIH treatment, particularly in combination with tretinoin to enhance penetration and pigment turnover. The same regulatory and ochronosis caveats apply as for melasma. For… |
No known conflicts — Hydroquinone isn’t flagged against any concern or skin condition.
Strength reflects the ingredient’s effect on each concern; study counts match research whose findings relate to that concern.
Hydroquinone is a brightening agent backed by a large, consistent body of clinical evidence (evidence tier 1 of 4). We track 9 studies for it, 6 reporting a positive effect. It is typically effective at 2–4% in a formulation.
International Journal of Dermatology · 2021 · systematic review · n=126
Systematic review (n=126): Comprehensive ochronosis risk factor characterization foundational for DermIQ safety framework African descent Fitzpatrick V VI concentrations above 4% duration longer than 3 months.
International Journal of Dermatology · 1991 · rct · n=329
Randomized controlled trial (n=329, 24 weeks): HQ 4% EQUIVALENT to azelaic 20% 65% good to excellent no statistical difference; supports azelaic preference given better safety profile.
Acta Dermato-Venereologica Supplementum · 1989 · rct · n=155
Randomized controlled trial (n=155, 24 weeks): HQ 2% INFERIOR to azelaic 20% 19% vs 73% good to excellent.
British Journal of Dermatology · 2008 · rct
Randomized controlled trial: Replicates Taylor 2003 finding in Asian skin Fitzpatrick III to V demonstrating triple combination superiority.
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology · 2007 · rct
Randomized controlled trial: Tri Luma superior to HQ 4% monotherapy supports triple combination approach for moderate to severe melasma.
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology · 2011 · observational
Clinical study (8 weeks): Azelaic 20% superior to HQ 4% at 8 weeks for mild melasma modern evidence.
+ 3 more studies in our evidence base.
In 4 products — most often exfoliants (1), masks (1), moisturizers (1), from $26.66 to $26.66. Set up a profile to rank these for your skin. Click any product to learn more.
FOREO
FOREO Coconut Oil UFO/UFO Mini Nourishing Face Mask for Dry Skin (6 Pack)
Mask
$26.66
Ideal for
Not recommended for
FOREO
FOREO Coconut Oil UFO/UFO Mini Nourishing Face Mask for Dry Skin (6 Pack)
Mask
$26.66
Ideal for
Not recommended for
FOREO Coconut Oil UFO/UFO Mini Nourishing Face Mask for Dry Skin (6 Pack) is a mask by FOREO. Key ingredients include Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride.
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Set up your skin profileEducational information, not medical advice. Study findings summarise the cited research and may not reflect every formulation.