Hydroquinone 8%

Hydroquinone is the reference depigmenting agent in dermatology. It inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme melanocytes use to make melanin, which is why it is prescribed for melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and stubborn dark spots. FormBlends compounds it with tretinoin (to speed the turnover of pigmented cells), niacinamide (studied to limit pigment transfer to surface skin) and vitamin C (a complementary brightener), so several steps of the pathway are addressed together, which is why combination formulas tend to outperform single agents on melasma. It is prescribed as a cycled course, typically twelve to sixteen weeks then a break, because continuous long-term use is not advised. A licensed provider reviews suitability; compounded by a US-licensed pharmacy. Daily sun protection is essential, since pigment returns without it, and it is not used in pregnancy.