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A hydroquinone formulation with increased stability and decreased potential for irritation
Author(s) -
Smiles Kenneth A,
Dong Kelly K,
Canning Matthew T,
Grimson Roger,
Walfield Alan M,
Yarosh Daniel B
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
journal of cosmetic dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.626
H-Index - 44
eISSN - 1473-2165
pISSN - 1473-2130
DOI - 10.1111/j.1473-2165.2007.00301.x
Subject(s) - irritation , hydroquinone , skin irritation , dermatology , medicine , chemistry , organic chemistry , immunology
Summary Background Long‐term treatment with a high‐strength hydroquinone (HQ) cream (usually 4% HQ) is the mainstay therapy for hyperpigmentation disorders. Instability and high potential for irritancy hinders patient compliance. A new 4% HQ preparation has been designed with an innovative antioxidant for stability and a biomimetic of an herbal extract for skin calming. Aims To investigate the activity, stability, and irritancy of a new HQ cream. Methods To evaluate the new HQ cream in comparison with commercial 4% HQ creams for stability by temperature stress test, for irritancy by repeated‐insult patch test on human subjects, and for lightening effect using the MelanoDerm™ B skin equivalent model. Results The new HQ is more resistant to browning and shows less irritancy than three commercially available 4% HQ products. It has comparable bleaching effect with faster onset than a 4% HQ product containing 0.05% tretinoin and 0.01% fluocinolone acetonide. Conclusion Based on its improved stability, lower irritancy, and activity in skin lightening, the new approach to the formulation of 4% HQ may improve therapeutic outcomes by improving patient compliance to dosing.