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Dark spots and melasma are a fact of life for many people and can be caused by a variety of factors that range from hormonal changes and certain medications to genetics and aging.
These little (and not-so-little) spots can be frustrating because they don’t automatically go away with a bit of cream and even a laser treatment can take several attempts before it actually works.
But that doesn’t mean hyperpigmentation is a lost cause. This is the secret ingredient derms swear by to eliminate dark spots and melasma.
There are SO MANY skincare products out there that claim they can eliminate dark spots and melasma. A number of them have luxury brand names and a lengthy list of ingredients that include fillers that allow them to jack up prices while providing little to no additional benefit to your skin.
Knowing which effective ingredients dermatologists rely on to target hyperpigmentation helps you cut down on costs and the frustration involved in trying out every product under the sun.
According to experts, there is one ingredient that has been shown to be effective in reducing the appearance of dark spots: hydroquinone. Before you go out and buy a tube of straight-up hydroquinone, there’s something you should know about the ingredient: it’s not without controversy.
First, what is hydroquinone, exactly?
According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology: “Hydroquinone is a topical skin-bleaching agent used in the cosmetic treatment of hyperpigmented skin conditions. The effect of skin lightening caused by hydroquinone is reversible when exposed to sunlight and therefore requires regular use until desired results are achieved. Various preparations are available including creams, emulsions, gels, lotions and solutions. It is available over the counter in a 2% cream and can be prescribed by your dermatologist in higher concentrations.”
There are some side effects that have been reported with hydroquinone, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology: “Normally hydroquinone is very well tolerated, however side effects may be seen. These include dryness, irritation, pruritus, erythema, and a mild irritant contact dermatitis. Furthermore, remember to avoid contact with eyes and use sparingly on the face. Prolonged usage of hydroquinone has been associated with ochronosis, a blue-black pigmentation with caviar-like papules on the skin.”
While hydroquinone may be the gold standard lightening ingredient for dark spots, there are a number of gentle, safe, and effective creams and serums that incorporate just enough hydroquinone with a blend of other amazing ingredients that exfoliate and brighten skin for the best possible result. This serum by Murad is a top-notch choice — one that contains hydroquinone 2 percent, glycolic acid, vitamin C, and hexapeptide-2 — all effective star ingredients that address frustrating excess pigmentation.
And remember: always wear sunscreen during the day to prevent additional spots from forming.
Murad Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lighening Serum, $72, Sephora
