Bleaching cream - Recipe for skin, face, body bleaching cream

"Bleaching cream" is a generic term for topically applied cream that contains a chemical called hydroquinone . Hydroquinones lighten skin because they retard pigment production through oxidization of the skin's pigment cells.

Hydroquinones are the most widely prescribed medication sold in the United States for lightening skin discoloration. They are also available over the counter in lower strengths.

Hydroquinones are best used as part of a skin-lightening regimen. Applied alone, even prescription-strength hydroquinones do not usually work well enough to lighten spots significantly.

Further, sun exposure often causes the lightened area to darken again. Consequently, dermatologists often use superficial chemical peels with either glycolic or salicylic acids that allow hydroquinones to better penetrate the skin and make them more effective.

Dermatologists also use Retin-A, the antiwrinkle cream Renova, and Azelex cream in combination with hydroquinones in order to bring about a more complete lightening that can blend seamlessly into the natural complexion of the skin. One prescription hydroquinone cream contains an added hint of glycolic acid to boost its efficacy.

With the help of a dermatologist, the right formula of hydroquinone can be found that will prevent possible skin irritation. Darkening, rather than lightening, of the skin can occur in darker-skinned people.

Because of these risks, hydroquinones should be used in small amounts, and only under the care of a dermatologist.