Question Hi, I am an olive toned asian. For the past 11 months, I have been using liquid topical solution consisting of .025% tretinoin with 2% hydroquinone, daily to help my complexion stay clear of acne as well as helping it stay as youthful as possible. I like the product very much. This product is called "Maxi-Peel" by Splash Corporation in the Philippines that my mother buys there without a prescription. I have another year's supply of it. I love this product very much mainly for the tretinoin properties. The hydroquinone is secondary to me, although my minor hyperpigmentation has been improved a little. What are the risks (if any) of using 2% hydroquinone for another year (a total of 2 years)? Thanks for any advice you can offer.
Answer Common side effects of hydroquinone used topically are allergic reactions, dryness, fissuring, erythema or redness, burning and irritation. However, these side effecs are rare. Thus, there is no problem with you using the medication long term. However, the medication has not been tested in pregnant women. Therefore you should not use the medications if you become pregnant and that includes topical Retin A.
