Hydroquinone is a skin lightening agent prescribed to reduce excess pigment and improve the appearance of uneven tone and darker patches.
First developed in the 1850s and approved for UK use in 1985, hydroquinone remains a well-established option in dermatology for targeting hyperpigmentation.
Fade the appearance of dark marks in 3 steps
your quick and secure consultation
your hydroquinone prescription plan
your formula as your skin improves
Made in a gentle vegan base cream, your hydroquinone formula may include other active ingredients, selected from adapalene, azelaic acid, niacinamide, and tretinoin.
 |
VS | Retail |
|---|---|---|
| Prescription Lightening Agent | Cosmetic Retinol Only | |
| 3-in-1 Active Treatment | 3 Separate Products Needed | |
| Personalised To Your Skin | One-Size-Fits-All | |
| Up To 20× Higher Efficacy | Limited Visible Change | |
| Care From UK-Registered Pharmacists | Standard Retail Product | |
| Dermatology-Grade Standards | Non-Clinical Standards | |
Monderma’s hydroquinone formulas are overseen by GPhC-registered prescribers and pharmacists for safe, guided use.
As your skin adjusts over time, your prescriber can review and modify the strength or frequency to ensure the treatment remains suitable.
My skin is looking great and is very happy!
Packaging is very luxurious and the cream itself is a lovely consistency which absorbs in to the skin.
Skin feels clearer already!
Really good product to use and excellent results within a few weeks so far.
Amazing custom skin formulae high quality and value
It’s been about 3 months since I’ve been using Monderma, and I can say I’ve seen transformative results on my face.
Personalised hydroquinone formulas made to lighten the look of darker patches, refine uneven tone, and support a more balanced complexion.
Begin your clinically tailored skincare plan today.
Monderma's hydroquinone is typically applied to your face. It can also be used on your neck and under-eye area with moisturiser. A low strength is recommended for these areas, as they are more sensitive. Avoid applying it too close to your eyelids.
Apply TWO pumps to clean, dry skin on the affected area(s) once daily at NIGHT. After application, wash your hands and follow up with applying a moisturiser. Use a sunscreen of SPF30 or higher daily to protect your skin.
Monderma prescribes hydroquinone in strengths ranging from 2% to 4%, in accordance with national guidelines.
The most suitable strength for you varies based on several factors, including whether it is ageing skin or hyperpigmentation being treated, prior use of skin lightening agents, and individual skin response. Starting too high or increasing strength too quickly can lead to skin irritation.
While some users gradually increase their strength, the majority find that maintaining a consistent, lower concentration provides optimal results for their skin.
You may start to see visible results after 1 week. However, for lasting results, we recommend nightly use for at least 12 weeks.
Hydroquinone can be used for no longer than 6 consecutive months. Before Monderma's prescribers will consider resuming treatment, an extended break is required.
Although hydroquinone is designed to treat skin conditions, some users may experience mild side effects. This includes peeling, tingling, and redness, particularly during the initial adjustment period. To minimise this risk, Monderma recommends starting with a lower strength and applying a moisturiser to support your skin as it adapts. Hydroquinone is not safe for use during pregnancy. If you are trying to conceive, become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, discontinue use immediately and contact us for further guidance.
Hydroquinone should not be used with harsh exfoliants, alcohol-based products, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid at the same time, as these can cause skin irritation. However, it is generally safe to combine with most other over-the-counter skincare products.
If you need to use any other prescription skincare, you must notify Monderma to ensure your hydroquinone formula is safe for continued use.
Additionally, always notify each healthcare or procedure provider about your prescription skincare use. Some procedures may require pausing application before and after to minimise the risk of skin sensitivity and adverse reactions.