Hydroquinone gel melasma guide
How to patch-test, apply and review prescribed hydroquinone 4% gel, including its alcohol and glycol vehicle precautions.
How to use
- 01
Step 1
What it is and how it works
Licoforte gel contains hydroquinone 40 mg/g. It reduces formation of new melanin on small areas of confirmed melasma. Its vehicle contains ethanol 17.5%, propylene glycol and glycolic acid, which can sting sensitive skin.
- 02
Step 2
Apply it as prescribed
Before the first facial use, patch-test a small amount on the inner forearm for at least 24 hours and do not continue if it irritates. Apply a thin layer only to small, intact pigmented patches once daily for 10–15 days, then twice daily if tolerated. Avoid the eyes, lips and mucosa and wash your hands afterwards.
- 03
Step 3
Skin care and interactions
Use broad-spectrum SPF 50+ every day, reapply every 2–3 hours during exposure and use physical shade; avoid UVA. Do not apply hydrogen peroxide or benzoyl peroxide to the same area, do not cover it with an occlusive dressing and do not add another hydroquinone product. This alcohol-containing gel can sting or dry the skin; do not use it on sensitive skin or substitute HQUIN cream without checking the vehicle and excipients.
Dose schedule
- 01
Step 1
Timing and review
The recommended course is 60–90 days. Stop and request review if there is no improvement after 2 months, or sooner for persistent irritation or darkening. Never use continuously for more than 6 months; planned breaks are required.
- 02
Step 2
If you miss an application
Apply it when you remember unless the next scheduled application is near. In that case, skip it and continue as usual. Do not apply extra product to make up for it.
Side effects
Local irritation
Mild redness, dryness, stinging or peeling can occur, especially at the start. Use a gentle moisturiser and follow the prescribed adjustment plan. Stop and seek advice if the reaction is marked or persistent.
Darkening or blue-black marks
Stop and request assessment if the skin becomes persistently darker or develops blue-black marks. Prolonged hydroquinone use can cause ochronosis. Do not use a cream or gel that has turned dark or blackish.
04 · Do not use if
Do not use this treatment if
- You are allergic to hydroquinone or an ingredient in the dispensed product
- The area has ochronosis, open wounds, eczema, marked irritation or sunburn
- You are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding
05 · When to contact your doctor
Contact your doctor if
- Facial swelling, breathing difficulty, widespread blistering, eye pain, light sensitivity or altered vision — seek urgent medical care
- Persistent irritation, worsening pigmentation, blue-black marks or a product that has turned dark
- There is no improvement after 2 months, or the diagnosis or treatment area is uncertain
Storage
Keep the gel tightly closed in its original labelled package, protected from direct heat and light and out of children's reach. Follow the label's temperature and expiry instructions. Do not use it if the gel becomes dark or blackish.
What to expect
Hydroquinone affects newly produced pigment, so fading is gradual and temporary. Daily photoprotection is part of treatment and helps reduce recurrence. Compare dated photographs in the same lighting at the 2-month review.