OBAGI Prescription Hydroquinone Treatment (Clear #3)

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Unlicensed medicine

Hydroquinone holds no UK marketing authorisation, so this system is supplied as an unlicensed medicine. This is standard for prescription hydroquinone in the UK. It does not mean the product is untested — hydroquinone is one of the most extensively studied depigmenting agents available — but it does mean your prescriber takes direct responsibility for the decision to prescribe it. Raise any questions with us before you begin.

What this system contains

Nu-Derm Clear and Nu-Derm Blender each contain 4% hydroquinone, a prescription-only depigmenting agent. The system is supplied only following our online skin consultation and medical review, and is prescribed for you individually. Do not share it with anyone else.

Because hydroquinone is delivered through two products, morning and evening, your total exposure is higher than with a single hydroquinone product. Course discipline matters more here, not less.

Course length and breaks

Hydroquinone is prescribed in courses, not used continuously. Use the system for three to four months, then stop and take a break of the same length — three to four months — before starting another course. During the break, maintenance is with non-hydroquinone brightening agents such as vitamin C, azelaic acid or kojic acid, which hold your results without the risks that come with continuous use.

The break is not optional. Prolonged uninterrupted use carries a risk of exogenous ochronosis, a permanent grey-blue darkening of the treated skin, and the risk is higher in deeper skin tones. If you have seen no improvement after two months, stop and speak to your prescriber rather than continuing. A review is required before any repeat supply is issued.

Sun protection

Broad-spectrum SPF 50 every morning, without exception, and reapplied through the day if you are outdoors. Hydroquinone suppresses pigment production, but daylight reactivates it, including through windows and on overcast days. Without daily sun protection you will undo the treatment as you go. Avoid sunbeds entirely during your course.

Products not to combine

Benzoyl peroxide and hydrogen peroxide. Do not use these at the same time as hydroquinone. The combination causes temporary dark staining of the skin and can also stain fabrics and towels. It is harmless and reversible, but alarming if you are not expecting it. If you use a benzoyl peroxide acne product, tell us so we can separate them.

Other skin-lightening products. Do not use any other lightening or brightening prescription alongside this system.

Products to use with care

Tretinoin. Tretinoin is not included in this kit but is commonly prescribed alongside it, and the pairing is intentional and effective. It does increase irritation. Follow the phasing schedule your prescriber gives you rather than starting everything at once, and if your skin becomes tight, red or flaky, contact us before stopping anything.

Additional exfoliating acids, scrubs and strong alcohol-based toners. The system already contains an exfoliant. Do not add more.

Fragranced skincare. Your barrier is more permeable during treatment, which raises the risk of irritation and of developing a sensitivity. Keep anything you use outside the system as bland as possible.

Who should not use it

Anyone pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Anyone with a previous allergic reaction to hydroquinone or to any ingredient in the system.

Clear and Blender contain sodium metabisulfite. Sulfite sensitivity can cause allergic reactions, including severe asthmatic episodes, in susceptible people. If you are asthmatic or know you react to sulphites, tell us before you begin.

Blender contains a salicylate. If you have a known salicylate or aspirin sensitivity, tell us before you begin.

How to use it

Follow the stepped schedule your prescriber gives you. Products are phased in gradually over the first few weeks rather than all started together.

Apply to clean, completely dry skin. Keep everything away from the eyes, eyelids, nostrils, lips and any broken or inflamed skin. Finish every morning routine with SPF 50.

Treat the whole face as directed rather than spot-treating individual marks, and avoid applying to large areas of the body at once.

What is normal

The first six weeks are an adjustment period. Redness, dryness, flaking, tightness and a mild stinging on application are usual as skin turnover accelerates, and they settle. Visible improvement typically begins between six and twelve weeks.

Stop and contact the clinic if

Stinging or burning persists rather than settling.

The skin swells, blisters, or develops a rash.

The treated area darkens, or develops a grey-blue or blue-black discolouration.

Any pigmentation appears to be worsening rather than improving.

Contact us on info@sebastianrose.co.uk or 0800 772 0137.

Storage

Store away from direct heat and sunlight with caps closed. Hydroquinone oxidises on exposure to air and light. If Clear or Blender turns dark brown, it has oxidised and should be discarded rather than used.

Other medicines and skincare

Tell your prescriber about every skincare product and medication you are using, including anything bought over the counter, before you start and if anything changes during your course.

Free UK delivery on orders over £99. Standard delivery 3–5 working days, £4.99; express next working day, £9.99. Add a cleanser or travel mini to reach free delivery.