Hydroquinone 4%

I have several 3-5 month old scars on my arm from being cut.  The scars are red, so I purchased hydroquinone 4%.  I can't afford a doctor, even though I have a college degree.  So i've been using it 2x a day, and my scars are twice as red as they were before.  I wanted to know if this is normal.  There is sometimes a VERY slight burning sensation and I think a tiny bit of peeling.  I do not want to continue use if this isn't normal.  I am fair skinned- caucasian.  Thanks for any light you can shed, or what would be an alternative.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It is true that hydroquinone is used for hyperpigmentation and scarring but hydroquinone 4% is a highly potent cream and should be used only after dermatologist’s consultation. Hydroquinone may act as a carcinogen or cancer-causing chemical, although its cancer-causing properties have yet to be proved in humans.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.