Bleaching Creams! How do I decide?
Anya & Aidin Products
Hyperpigmentation caused by acne scars, melasma or sun exposure is often difficult to treat. The two best ingredients to look for in a brightening product are hydroquinone and arbutin. Hydroquinone and arbutin are agents that help lighten pigmentation caused by melasma, freckles and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. These ingredients can be used independently to treat primary hyperpigmentation and are also paired with devices or chemical peels to treat hyperpigmentation faster and more effectively.
What is Hydroquinone?
Hydroquinone inhibits melanin synthesis in the skin, which allows it to act as a depigmenting agent. Patients who are prescribed hydroquinone will normally see results in about 3 months. After three months, patients must stop the use of hydroquinone. Continuing the use of this medication causes an increased risk to develop ochronosis, which is black and blue discoloration of the skin. This pigmentation is permanent but can be treated with laser treatment to reduce its appearance. Other side effects while using hydroquinone include irritation, erythema, contact dermatitis and stinging.
What is Arbutin?
Arbutin is a compound of hydroquinone and D-glucose that is derived from cranberries, blueberries, wheat and pears. Like hydroquinone, it is also used as a lightening agent. Because arbutin is a compound, it is less irritating than hydroquinone. arbutin has been shown to rarely cause dermatitis in patients. Because of its molecular compound, it does not cause ochronosis like hydroquinone, and can be used for prolonged periods of time.
Where do I find these ingredients?
Hydroquinone comes in a cream form and is prescribed by your doctor.
Arbutin also comes in the form of a cream and can be purchased over the counter. Many products that contain arbutin have a 2% concentration. We recommend medical grade products which contain higher percentages of arbutin in order to achieve desired results in a quicker time frame. Our Anya & Aidin Advanced Brightening Complex contains 4% arbutin as well as Vitamin C and Vitamin A to further help brighten pigmentation and promote cell turnover.
How do I know which product is right for me?
Treating dark spots isn’t easy and treating can be an overwhelming experience with so many different products available. In order to determine which product is right for you, schedule a consultation with your dermatologist.
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Isabelle Robles, IV Nutrition Specialist