Cosmetic and dermatology: bleaching creams.

Bleaching creams containing hydroquinone are modestly effective in treating some pigmentary disorders. In 2.0% to 5.0% concentrations, hydroquinone is generally quite safe; allergic contact dermatitis may rarely necessitate stopping therapy. Achieving successful results depends on diligent, long-term treatment by patients who have carefully instructed in methods of use as well as protection from sun exposure. Supplemental use of topical corticosteroids, salicylic acid, or tretinoin, under a physician's supervision, improves the results considerably. However, even with the most persistent and careful management, most patients experience at best only partial improvement.