Recently, the state of Texas banned the use of skin-lightening chemical hydroquinone (HQ) in concentrations of 4 percent or more for skin care products for black skin.
The action has caused many to wonder about the safety of the chemical, which also has several industrial uses.
Cosmetic company founder Rhonda Allison said that use of the product should be left to professionals who can administer it properly and recommend treatments to keep the skin healthy after a HQ treatment.
"With the nature of HQ, or any corrective product, it's absolutely essential that it be paired with skin-building ingredients like epidermal growth factor, and protected with SPF 30," Allison said. "That said, there are also a number of HQ-alternative lighteners available."
Many natural extracts and acids can help to even out dark spots on black skin but are not as harsh or damaging as HQ. Additionally, using antioxidant-rich cleansers and moisturizers in conjunction with daily sunscreen may help to even out complexions.
HQ works by destroying melanocytes, which are cells that produce the pigment melanin that gives skin its color.
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