Doctor-Prescribed Cream for Dark Spots: Is it Hydroquinone?
Question
My doctor prescribed a cream to spot-treat dark spots/melasma. I was instructed to apply it only at night and only to the dark spots to avoid lightening normal skin. Based on these characteristics, what is the likely active ingredient in this cream?
Answer
Based on the description you provided and the responses from the staff, the cream prescribed by your doctor for spot-treating dark spots, which works by reducing melanin production and should only be applied at night to the dark spots to avoid lightening normal skin, is very likely to contain Hydroquinone as the active ingredient.
Here's a summary:
- Function: Hydroquinone is a strong skin-lightening agent that works by inhibiting the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots, freckles, and melasma.
- Why spot treatment? As your doctor explained, applying it to normal skin would also reduce melanin production in those areas, leading to uneven and abnormally light patches. This is why precise application using a cotton bud is recommended.
- Regulatory Status: In many countries, including Thailand, Hydroquinone is restricted for use in cosmetics due to safety concerns, particularly with high concentrations or prolonged use. It is typically available only by prescription from a doctor for treating specific skin conditions like melasma or hyperpigmentation.
- Usage: As the staff mentioned, when used under medical supervision at an appropriate concentration and for a limited duration (often 1-3 months), it can be effective for treating dark spots. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions precisely regarding application method, frequency, and duration of use.
Therefore, while the cream is labeled "3HV cream", the active ingredient responsible for its effect and the specific usage instructions is most likely Hydroquinone.