Dr. Ashwini. V. Swamy
Venereology
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
Answered by
Medically reviewed by
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I would like to know whether it is safe to use Benzoyl Peroxide in the morning and Hydroquinone at night on the face. Every website that I have been on has told me not to "combine" Benzoyl Peroxide and Hydroquinone, but I am unclear on how strict or broad the definition of "combine" is here. Can I just not layer the products on top of each other? Can I not even use them on the same day (one in the morning and one at night)? Or In the same week? Where do I draw the line? It is recommended that you use Hydroquinone at night anyway, so I figured that it would make sense, if possible, to use Benzoyl Peroxide in the morning, let that absorb, and then use Hydroquinone at night. The problem is that Hydroquinone is supposed to eliminate dark spots on your face over time, but it will reverse and make those dark spots even darker if you "combine" it with Benzoyl Peroxide. That is why I need a better definition of how to "combine" them. Kindly advise.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Benzoyl Peroxide is an acne medication, and Hydroquinone is given to improve dark pigmentation. Hydroquinone should be used during the night because it is known to make skin sensitive to sunlight if used during morning hours. And the same with Benzoyl Peroxide. Benzoyl Peroxide can be used during morning hours like spot therapy, for pimples. Apply early in the morning and wash off after three hours. Then use a good sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 to prevent further darkening of pigmentation. Use Hydroquinone for dark spots at night. Hydroquinone in higher concentrations used for longer duration can cause skin pigmentation called ochronosis. Hence follow your dermatologist's advice on the duration of treatment. Benzoyl Peroxide causes little irritation to the skin and gives good results when used with Clindamycin (Clindamycin Hydrochloride or Clindamycin Phosphate). Because of the irritation, the pigmentation stays a little longer. Benzoyl peroxide per se is not known to cause pigmentation.
I hope this helps.
Thank you.
Was this conversation helpful?
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Venereology
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy
