Hiquin 2%

ALPHAQUIN HP 4% CREAMNUQUIN HP 4% CREAM, NUQUIN HP 4% GEL, MELPAQUE HP 4% CREAM, MELQUIN HP 4% CREAM and Hiquin 2% (Hiquin 2% 3% topical solution) are indicated for the gradual bleaching of hyperpigmented skin conditions such as chloasma, melasma, freckles, senile lentigines and other undesired areas of melanin hyperpigmentation.

Hiquin 2% decreases the formation of melanin in the skin. Melanin is the pigment in skin that gives it a brown color.

Hiquin 2% topical (for the skin) is used to lighten areas of darkened skin such as freckles, age spots, melasma (sun damage), or chloasma (darkened skin caused by hormonal changes).

Hiquin 2% topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Generic name: Hiquin 2% 40mg in 1g

Dosage form: gel

See also:

• Glytone Clarifying Cream cream
• Glytone Clarifying Gel gel
• Glytone Skin Lightening Cream cream

Medically reviewed on August 11, 2018.

Hiquin 2% should be applied daily at night to affected areas and rubbed in well, or as directed by a physician. If no lightening effect is seen after 2 months of treatment, use of this product should be discontinued.

During the day, avoid sunlight exposure to treated areas by using an effective broad spectrum sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) or by wearing sun-protective clothing.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

More about Glytone Skin Lightening (Hiquin 2% topical)

• During Pregnancy
• Dosage Information
• Drug class: topical depigmenting agents

Consumer resources

Other brands: Hiquin 2% and Sunscreen, Hiquin 2%, Eldoquin, Esoterica,... +22 more

Professional resources

• Glytone Skin Lightening Cream (FDA)
• Hiquin 2% (FDA)
• Hiquin 2% (AHFS Monograph)

Related treatment guides

• Dermatological Disorders

See also:
What is the most important information I should know about Hiquin 2%?

Before using Hiquin 2% topical, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have liver or kidney disease.

Do not use Hiquin 2% topical on skin that is sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated, or on an open wound. It could make these conditions worse. Wait until these conditions have healed before applying Hiquin 2% topical.

Avoid getting this medication in your mouth or eyes. If it does get into any of these areas, rinse with water.

Avoid using skin products that can cause irritation, such as harsh soaps, shampoos, or skin cleansers, hair coloring or permanent chemicals, hair removers or waxes, or skin products with alcohol, spices, astringents, or lime. Do not use other medicated skin products unless your doctor has told you to.

Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Hiquin 2% topical can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

Use Hiquin 2% cream as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Before using Hiquin 2% cream for the first time, apply a small amount to an unbroken patch of skin and check in 24 hours for itching, blistering, or excessive redness or irritation. If these effects develop, contact your doctor as soon as possible and do not use Hiquin 2% cream on other areas.
• Wash and completely dry the affected areas. Gently rub the medicine in until it is evenly distributed. Wash your hands immediately after using Hiquin 2% cream, unless your hands are part of the treated area.
• If you miss a dose of Hiquin 2% cream, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Hiquin 2% cream.

Hiquin 2% is used to lighten the dark patches of skin (also called hyperpigmentation, melasma, "liver spots," "age spots," freckles) caused by pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone medicine, or injury to the skin.

This medicine works by blocking the process in the skin that leads to discoloration.

How to use Hiquin 2% topical

Follow all directions on the product package, or use as directed by your doctor. Before using, apply a small amount of this medicine to an area of unbroken skin, and check the area within 24 hours for any serious side effects. If the test area is itching, red, puffy, or blistering, do not use this product and contact your doctor. If there is just mild redness, then treatment with this product may begin.

Apply this medication to the affected areas of skin, usually twice daily or as directed by your doctor. This medication is for use on the skin only. If it is used incorrectly, unwanted skin lightening may occur. Avoid getting this product in your eyes or on the inside of your nose or mouth. If you do get this medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water.

This medication may make the treated areas of skin more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths, and sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing on the treated areas of skin when outdoors.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens after 2 months.

See also:
What other drugs will affect Hiquin 2%?

Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use.

Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

See also:
What are the possible side effects of Hiquin 2%?

Mild burning, stinging, redness, and dryness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has prescribed this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Stop using Hiquin 2% and tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: blistering, skin cracking, blue-black darkening of the skin.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Hiquin 2% is a topical lightening product found in OTC products, and is used to correct skin discoloration associated with disorders of hyperpigmentation including melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmention, sunspots, and freckles. It can be used alone, but is more frequently found in combination with other agents such as alpha-hydroxy acids, corticosteroids, retinoids, or sunscreen. Hiquin 2% has come under scrutiny due to several complications associated with its use, including dermal irritation, exogenous onchronosis, and carginogenicity. As a result of these concerns, Hiquin 2% has been banned in the EU and UK.