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We all crave flawless skin, but dark spots are not an easy problem to treat. For a number of reasons – from sun damage and stress to hormones and inflammation – hyperpigmentation is a common problem because it protects your body from everyday environmental stressors. It is no wonder that many are turning to hydroquinone, a powerful skin care ingredient to remove this common frustration. However, before reaching for this product, you should find out what it is and whether hydroquinone is safe.

What is hydroquinone?

Basically, hydroquinone is a chemical compound that is used to lighten dark spots. Byrdie Tell us that it was discovered in the early 19th century and used for everything from "skin care to photo development". Today, hydroquinone is used to treat skin conditions associated with hyperpigmentation, including acne scars, age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory spots. Classified as a drug in the United States, it is only available on prescription in four percent concentrations and over the counter in two percent doses.

Where does hyperpigmentation come from?

When dark spots appear, your skin has gone into overdrive in the production of melanin, a type of pigment produced by cells called melanocytes. Triggered by stress such as UV rays or hormonal imbalances, the skin reacts with a protective defense and the production of additional melanin. Eminence Organics Lead Skin Care Trainer Natalie Pergar explains that an enzyme called tyrosinase triggers this process and "signals the production of melanin in the melanocytes of the skin". When more melanin is produced, the skin develops spots and an uneven skin tone.

How does hydroquinone work?

Hydroquinone works by inhibition the function of tyrosinase and the reduction in the number of melanocytes. By controlling these cells, melanin production is reduced and hyperpigmentation and other skin discoloration problems are reduced. Cosmetic and plastic surgeon Dr. David Shafer Byrdie says the effect is temporary and discontinued and exposure to the sun can result in "pigment re-production and dark spot return".

Is hydroquinone safe?

Although the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Hydroquinone was recognized as safe and effective in 1982 and withdrawn in 2006 due to concerns.

The FDA said: "There is potential for Hydroquinone is said to be carcinogenic in humans. "

The FDA said: "There is potential for Hydroquinone is said to be carcinogenic in humans. “Referring to studies from the Environmental protection agency and the National Toxicology ProgramThe FDA found that there was evidence of a carcinogenic effect in tested rats and mice, including the development of leukemia and liver lesions. However, there is no evidence that hydroquinone has caused cancer in humans.

In addition to its potential carcinogenic properties, hydroquinone has been linked to contaminants such as mercury. The LA Times Early studies found that women using hydroquinone products were high in mercury. Based on these findings, hydroquinone is banned in Europe, Japan and Australia. The World Health Organization has also looked into the unsupervised use of hydroquinone and said, "It is recommended to restrict over-the-counter sales of creams containing hydroquinone."

Even under supervision, hydroquinone may cause minor side effects and skin irritation. Dermatologist Dr. Lily Talakoub lists the most common side effects as "redness, irritation and peeling, although allergic reactions can occur with any topical preparation". People with dry or sensitive skin may also find that hydroquinone temporarily increases dryness or irritation. In addition to increased sensitivity, hydroquinone can also make the skin more sensitive to the sun. Sun protection is essential at all times, but especially necessary when using this medication.

Hydroquinone can cause not only minor skin irritation but also pigmentation problems, although these are usually rare. Since hydroquinone lightens dark spots, the hydroquinone often lightens the areas around it and leaves a so-called "halo spot". Dr. Shafer describes this problem to Byrdie as "slightly depigmented halo around the area to be treated".

At the other end of the spectrum, the skin can respond to hydroquinone by actually darkening in a condition called ochronisis. Dr. Talakoub describes this very rare reaction as one in which "black deposits form in the deeper layers of the skin". The skin can darken and thicken, resulting in dome-shaped yellowish bumps and gray-brown spots.

Natural hydroquinone alternatives

Although hydroquinone is an effective drug, it is still surrounded by question marks regarding its safety and side effects. If you're looking for safer solutions, you should explore them Natural hydroquinone alternatives as options for targeted hyperpigmentation. Not only do these alternatives naturally balance the look of your complexion, they can also offer antioxidant benefits for protection and prevention. Here are some natural alternatives for your skin care:

Bearberry extract

This botanical ingredient contains a natural form of hydroquinone and arbutin as melanin inhibitors. The bearberry extract obtained from the Uva Ursi plant contains strong antioxidant properties that help with hyperpigmentation.

Licorice extract

This extract contains liquiritin and glabridine, which disrupt melanin formation in the skin and support the appearance of an uneven skin tone. Because inflammation is a factor in hyperpigmentation, the anti-inflammatory properties of licorice are also helpful.

Tara Tree & African Potato

Like hydroquinone, these two ingredients act on the tyrosinase enzyme – it reduces tyrosinase activity and hampers its development. These actions reduce melanin production and counteract hyperpigmentation.

Gigawhite™

This formulation consists of seven organically grown Swiss Alpine plants, including mallow, peppermint, lady's mantle, Eurasian primrose, Speedwell, lemon balm and yarrow. These extracts inhibit tyrosinase and are all mixed together. This formulation has a strong effect on dark spots.

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If you're not sure if hydroquinone is safe, look for natural alternatives to help fight your dark spots. For more information on natural hydroquinone alternatives, see the Eminence Organics Bright Skin line, including our Bright Skin Moisturizers, Bright Skin Masque, Bright Skin Licorice Root Booster Serums and Bright Skin Targeted Treatment. Or speak to your beautician at the nearest Eminence Organics partner spa and find out if a natural alternative is right for you.

Do you suffer from dark spots? Let us know how to tackle your problem in the comments below, or let us know on social media.