If you have dry or irritated skin, you may find that hydroquinone causes further dryness or irritation. This usually tapers off as your skin adjusts to the ingredient.
However, people with normal or oily skin are less likely to experience these side effects.
There are various risk when using Hydroquinone such as dryness and irritation, but Hydroquinone can worsen hyperpigmentation in darker skin tone.
Here are the best Hydroquinone alternatives with lower risks of skin irritation and adverse effects:
Niacinamide: Niacinamide helps to prevent melanin pigment from travelling from the melanocytes where it’s made, to the keratinocyte skin cells, thus stopping Melanocytes from coming to the outermost layer of the skin (Visible).
Vitamin C (Tetrahexydecyl Ascorbate): Vitamin C has the ability to reverse some of the side effects of excessive melanin production from acne scarring, sun spots, etc. This form of Vitamin C has great skin penetration compared to other forms of Vitamin C and it is great for all skin types including sensitive skin. It has a longer shelf life and a higher potency than Absorbic Acid. Vitamin C helps to brighten and even the skin tone.
Licorice Extract: Licorice extract prevents dispersing of pigments, protects skin from UVB-induced pigmentation, and slows down melanin production. Acts as a great dark spot removing ingredient and also help to even the skin tone.
Lactic Acid: Lactic Acid helps to shed dead skin cells and fade dark spots. This acid ingredient is a little more gentle on the skin than Glycolic Acid. Helps to even the skin tone and reduce pore appearance.