Esoterica

(hydroquinone)

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Brightens patches of darkened skin, freckles, age spots.

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Our bottom line

Esoterica (hydroquinone) is an option for lightening hyperpigmented skin, but those areas can darken again when exposed to sunlight or UV light.

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Quick facts about hydroquinone
  • Drug class: dermatologic
  • Rx status: Prescription or OTC
  • Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (hydroquinone)

Upsides

  • Esoterica (hydroquinone) can work to lighten dark spots in some people, if they properly avoid sunlight throughout treatment.
  • Is cheaper than alternative skin lightening options.
  • Comes in different dosage strengths depending on your needs.
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What to expect from hydroquinone, on one page

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Downsides

  • Esoterica (hydroquinone) does not contain sunscreen. Must apply sunscreen on affected areas and use protective clothing.
  • The affected skin can darken again when exposed to sunlight or UV light.
  • Can cause discoloration of skin in some people.
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What to expect from hydroquinone, on one page

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How it works

Esoterica (hydroquinone) is a depigmenting agent. It temporarily prevents the skin pigments from turning darker.

Quick facts about hydroquinone
  • Drug class: dermatologic
  • Rx status: Prescription or OTC
  • Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (hydroquinone)

Used for

  • Skin bleacher

Dosage forms

  • Cream
  • Liquid
  • Gel
  • Lotion
Tried hydroquinone? Write a review!

Prices and coupons

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What to expect when you take Esoterica (hydroquinone) for Dark spots

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  • First few hoursHours
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  • Effectiveness
  • Starts to kick in
    Full effects
  • First few hoursHours
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  • Possible side effects
  • Skin irritation
  • Allergic reaction to sulfites
  • Blue-black darkening of skin
  • Skin dryness
  • Skin redness
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Side effect rates for Esoterica (hydroquinone)

Risks and Warnings for Esoterica (hydroquinone)

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    • Higher risk if:
    • › Black, caucasian, or Hispanic

    In some cases, Esoterica (hydroquinone) can cause skin to gradually turn blue-black in color on the areas where Esoterica (hydroquinone) was used. Rarely, it can result in fairly bad and permanent scarring on the face. If you notice these symptoms, stop use and contact your doctor right away.