Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use  hydroquinone topical if you are allergic to hydroquinone or peroxide.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have ever had:
liver or kidney disease;
asthma or sulfite allergy; or
if you are using any antibiotic medicine.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not give this medicine to anyone under 12 years old without medical advice.
How should I use hydroquinone topical?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Hydroquinone topical is usually applied each morning and at bedtime. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.
Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.
Before you start using hydroquinone topical, use a "test dose" to see if you have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Apply a very small amount of the medicine to a small area of healthy skin, and check the area within 24 hours. If there is no reaction other than minor redness, begin using the full prescribed amount of the medicine.
Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine, unless you are using it to treat the skin on your hands.
Apply this medicine only to the affected skin areas that need to be lightened. Try not to get any medicine on the skin around these areas.
Do not use hydroquinone topical on open wounds or on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 2 months, or if your condition gets worse.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the container tightly closed when not in use.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of hydroquinone topical is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.
