title: Cosmetic and dermatology: bleaching creams.
abstract: Bleaching creams containing hydroquinone are modestly effective in treating some pigmentary disorders. In 2.0% to 5.0% concentrations, hydroquinone is generally quite safe; allergic contact dermatitis may rarely necessitate stopping therapy. Achieving successful results depends on diligent, long-term treatment by patients who have carefully instructed in methods of use as well as protection from sun exposure. Supplemental use of topical corticosteroids, salicylic acid, or tretinoin, under a physician's supervision, improves the results considerably. However, even with the most persistent and careful management, most patients experience at best only partial improvement.
mesh_terms: D044383:Black People; D003358:Cosmetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005123:Eye / Q000187:drug effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006873:Hydroquinones / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008548:Melanosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D009824:Ointments; D010859:Pigmentation Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications; D012867:Skin / Q000187:drug effects; D013472:Sunlight
chemical_list: D003358:Cosmetics; D006873:Hydroquinones; D009824:Ointments