title: Split-Face Comparison of an Advanced Non-Hydroquinone Lightening Solution to 4% Hydroquinone.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Hyperpigmentation is a primary concern for many cosmetic patients because of its high rate of occurrence and significant impact on perceived age. While 4% hydroquinone has been the gold-standard of treatment, there is a growing interest in non-hydroquinone solutions, however, many of these newer solutions fail to deliver equivalent improvement.
  
  
  METHODS
  This double-blind, randomized, split-face study compares the effects of a new OTC non-hydroquinone lightening product (JM) to an available 4% hydroquinone lightening solution (OB) on the appearance of hyperpigmentation, texture, and ne lines and wrinkles. Comparisons were determined by both physician assessment and subject self-assessment at baseline, 4, 8, and 12 weeks.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Physician assessment showed statistically equivalent improvement on both sides of the face with the JM side showing equivalent or superior average improvement in all assessed categories. Subject self-assessment showed a significant preference for the JM product over the 4% hydroquinone and a substantially higher perception of overall improvement over 4% hydroquinone (P=0.058).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Physician assessment showed equal or superior average improvement in all measured categories with no statistically significant difference between the two sides. Subject self-assessment, however, showed a significant and growing preference toward the investigated JM product over the course of the study. Overall, the results of this study show the JM product to be equivalent if not superior to 4% hydroquinone for results and patient satisfaction. J Drugs Dermatol. 2016;15(12):1571-1577.
authors.forename: Joel
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Schlessinger
authors.forename: Subhash
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Saxena
authors.forename: Stuart
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Mohr
mesh_terms: D004311:Double-Blind Method; D004339:Drug Compounding; D005145:Face / Q000473:pathology; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D006873:Hydroquinones; D017495:Hyperpigmentation / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D015595:Skin Aging / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000473:pathology; D062327:Skin Lightening Preparations / Q000008:administration & dosage*
chemical_list: D006873:Hydroquinones; D062327:Skin Lightening Preparations; C031927:hydroquinone