Hydroquinone 4% Bleaching Cream

Hydroquinone 4% bleaching cream is the prescription strength of the product, used to lighten the skin in people who have:

  • Freckles
  • Age spots
  • Chloasma or melasma, conditions in pregnant women who have dark splotches on the face, sometimes in a “butterfly”-type pattern. It also is called “the mask of pregnancy.” Chloasma seems to have no other effect on the body, but can be a substantial cosmetic concern

Hydroquinone works by inhibiting the body’s production of melanin, a pigment that causes the skin to tan.

The treatment effects of hydroquinone are reversible, and exposure to sunlight will cause the dark pigmentation of the skin to return. To prevent this, it is important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 15 or greater) and wear protective clothing while using hydroquinone.

Hydroquinone also comes in 2% strength, which is an over-the-counter preparation.

Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML)

Hydroquinone bleaching cream has been linked to acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). The product contains benzene, which is known to cause cancer. AML originates in the bone marrow and is a cancer of the white blood cells.

Side Effects of Hydroquinone 4%

Hydroquinone should not be used on skin that is:

  • Sunburned
  • Wind burned
  • Chapped
  • Irritated

Hydroquinone use on skin with these conditions could make the problems worse. Persons who use hydroquinone should avoid using skin products that can cause irritation such as:

  • Abrasive soaps
  • Harsh shampoos
  • Harsh skin cleansers
  • Hair colorings or permanent chemicals
  • Hair removers
  • Waxed hair removers
  • Skin products containing alcohol, spices, astringents or lime

Persons using hydroquinone should also take care not to get sun burned or wind burned. A sunscreen of SPF 15 or stronger should be used and protective clothing should be worn.

Before using 4% hydroquinone, you should tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease because the physician might adjust the dosage in these cases.

Mild reactions to hydroquinone include:

  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Stinging
  • Redness
  • Irritation of the treated areas

If you have severe reactions of any of the above, you should call your doctor. Emergency help should be sought if you experience swelling of the:

  • Face
  • Lips
  • Tongue
  • Throat

Contact a Hydroquinone 4% Attorney

If you have been prescribed hydroquinone and are diagnosed with AML, you should contact a Hydroquinone attorney to discuss your options for filing a lawsuit. You might be eligible to seek financial compensation for your suffering. To find out if we can help you, please contact us today.