Common Questions about Hydroquinone (Blanche)

Why is hydroquinone banned in the US?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned all over-the-counter skin lightening products containing hydroquinone due to concerns about serious side effects including skin rashes, facial swelling, and ochronosis (blue-black discoloration of the skin).

Is hydroquinone cancerous?

Some studies have found that hydroquinone may be carcinogenic (may increase the risk of developing skin cancer). However, the link is difficult to prove. Your doctor can help you understand the risks versus benefits of using topical hydroquinone treatment for hyperpigmentation.

Does hydroquinone 4% lighten skin?

Hydroquinone 4% cream can lead to gradual lightening of skin caused by skin conditions such as melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, chloasma, freckles, solar lentigines, and other types of hyperpigmentation. However, because of a risk of serious harmful side effects, you should discuss the pros and cons of using hydroquinone with your dermatologist.

Is hydroquinone a steroid?

No, hydroquinone is not a steroid. However, the brand name product Tri-Luma cream that contains hydroquinone also contains fluocinolone acetonide (which is a steroid) and tretinoin (a vitamin A derivative).

Can I use hydroquinone every night?

You can use hydroquinone every night for as long as your doctor tells you. This medicine is usually prescribed to be used 1-2 times a day. It is for short-term treatment (up to 8 weeks) of moderate to severe melasma.

What is the price of hydroquinone without insurance?

Without insurance, hydroquinone can be as high as $44.09, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $27.43 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.

What is the price of hydroquinone with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on hydroquinone—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for hydroquinone. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.