All about skin brightening
My skin is extremely prone to pigmentation and so my research on skin brightening products never ends. Out of the many brightening products in the market, it is important to know which ones are effective, which ones have no side effects, which ones are prescription based and much more. Hydroquinone is an amazing, prescription based skin brightening ingredient with fantastic, even dramatic results. I have been using it on and off for many years, strictly monitored by my doctor. I would never use anything without a prescription, even though such products are easily available in Delhi. I can’t afford to take a chance, plus I want you ladies to really enjoy and love the benefits of the different products I mention in my posts.
Simply put, hydroquinone is a skin whitening cream. It can be used on its own, and can also be combined with a Vitamin C serum. It is a very effective product for treating acne marks and hyper pigmentation. It is safe for short term use when prescribed and monitored by your doctor.
A doctor first prescribed this for me to treat the dark patches on my skin. He prescribed the Obagi Nu Derm kit which contains 4% hydroquinone. After using it strictly under my dermatologist’s supervision for 6 months, I absolutely loved the results. My skin was glowing and flawless. Since it is not for long-term use, I stopped the moment my doctor told me to, and went on a hydroquinone-free maintenance regime. I still use 1-2 products from this line once a year for 3 months, as prescribed by my doctor, and then stop.
Obagi products are reliable medical products, and I trust them, since they come highly recommended by top plastic surgeons, dermatologists and medical spas. In most parts of the world, they are only sold against proper prescriptions. In India though, they can be purchased without prescriptions. Fearing misuse, a lot of top Indian dermatologists hesitate to introduce people to these products.
If hydroquinone sounds a tad too scary, then don’t worry, there are plenty of safer alternatives to it. Products with any one of the following can help you brighten your skin:
- Vitamin c serum
- Glycolic acid
- Lactic acid
- Kojic acid
- Arbutin
- Retinols
- Liquorice extract
- Azelaic acid
Have you tried or would you ever try hydroquinone? Let me know what you feel. Write to me below or using #stayrealstayyou on Instagram @shagunkhanna