Should I Be Scared Of Using Hydroquinone?

posted in Compounded Ingredients on June 13, 2025
Many of us want to rid our skin of those dark spots that were once cute “freckles” - or so we thought. One of the best methods for diminishing dark spots is use of a hydroquinone (HQ) based cream such as The Spot Cream.

Many of us want to rid our skin of those dark spots that were once cute “freckles” - or so we thought. One of the best methods for diminishing dark spots is use of a hydroquinone (HQ) based cream such as The Spot Cream.

Hydroquinone and it’s use for Dark Spots


Hydroquinone is considered the gold standard when it comes to lightening dark spots, but unfortunately due to immense amounts of misinformation and misconceptions, many people are reluctant to use HQ-based products. Read on to learn the truth about HQ!


Contrary to popular opinion, hydroquinone does not bleach your skin but rather restores the skin to its normal, baseline color. Skin color is determined primarily by melanin which is skin pigment; the more melanin, the tanner your skin appears. The Spot Cream works by blocking the process in the skin that leads to discoloration. To be more specific: hydroquinone decreases the production, and increases the breakdown of melanosomes in melanocytes by inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase, the enzyme needed to make melanin. Simply stated, HQ decreases production of, and breaks down, melanin clumps.

Does Hydroquinone Bleach Clothes


When thinking about using hydroquinone a common worry is whether it can cause clothing to lighten. This is a factor to think about for anyone adding hydroquinone to their skincare routine. Hydroquinone is an ingredient known for its ability to lighten the skin especially targeting spots, melasma and other types of hyperpigmentation. While it is effective, in treating these skin conditions it's crucial to know how to use it to prevent bleaching fabrics or garments.


Hydroquinone functions by stopping the production of melanin, the pigment that determines skin color. Due to its way of working there's a risk that hydroquinone could impact fabrics that touch the treated skin areas directly. To lower the chances of clothes being bleached its recommended to allow the hydroquinone product to fully soak into the skin before getting dressed or take steps to shield clothing that might touch the treated areas. Moreover applying hydroquinone as part of your skincare routine can lessen the chance of contact with clothes and bed linens.


For an efficient use of hydroquinone consider wearing clothes or white fabrics that won't show bleach marks as much after applying the product. Always adhere closely to product guidelines and advice, from dermatologists. By following these measures you can experience the benefits of using hydroquinone for skin without worrying about ruining your clothing.

Is Hydroquinone Safe to Use?


One of the biggest worries—one that is not based in science—is that HQ is unsafe to use. The fear that hydroquinone can cause cancer stems from studies that injected large amounts of hydroquinone into rats, orally. However, research on human use of topical hydroquinone has shown that it is both safe and effective. There have been no reports of hydroquinone causing cancer in humans when applied topically. So just make sure not to eat The Spot Cream! 


Another concern with long-term use of hydroquinone is the development of ochronosis, a blue-black pigmentation of the skin. Studies report this is mostly seen in people using HQ products that contain mercury, an ingredient that has the ability to lighten skin but is highly toxic. Mercury is illegal in the US, but it was found that HQ products from other countries contained additions of mercury. With The Spot Cream, you can be sure your medication is free of this toxic ingredient!


Now that you are confident in the benefits of The Spot Cream, let’s cover some basic info! In most cases, 6-8 weeks of treatment will result in lightening of dark spots, but sometimes it may take longer to see any change, so be patient! To increase the impact of The Spot Cream, stay out of the sun and/or wear wide brimmed hats when outdoors and use sunscreen with a minimum of SPF30. Sunscreen is essential to ensuring results! On the same note, you will want to avoid tanning or tanning salons. Don’t forget your appointed doctor is with you for 60 days and FaceRx support is always available.