Hydroquinone / Kojic Acid

Cream

10% / 2%

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Disclaimer: Images are for reference only; actual products may vary.

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Product Overview

Hydroquinone / Kojic Acid Description1,2

Hydroquinone / Kojic Acid is a combined depigmentation or skin-lightening formulation used to manage melasma, chloasma, solar lentigines, freckles, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This combination is commonly used for hyperpigmentation, as both ingredients inhibit tyrosinase, the key enzyme in melanin synthesis.

Hydroquinone3,4

Hydroquinone is a phenolic organic compound with the molecular formula C₆H₆O₂. It has applications in both the photography and cosmetic industries. There is substantial evidence supporting its use as a skin-lightening agent. Hydroquinone is typically compounded at concentrations ranging from 2% to 12%. Its efficacy and safety depend on the final concentration, the formulation vehicle, and the chemical stability of the product. Skin-lightening effects may become noticeable within approximately two months of use.

Kojic Acid5-7

Kojic acid is an organic acid produced by various fungi, including Aspergillus flavus, A. oryzae, A. tamarii, and A. parasiticus. It was first isolated in 1907 and commercially marketed in 1955. Kojic acid is commonly used as a depigmenting agent and is also associated with antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties in addition to its skin-lightening effects.

References

  1. Cassiano DP, Espósito ACC, da Silva CN, Lima PB, Dias JAF, Hassun K, Miot LDB, Miot HA, Bagatin E. Update on Melasma-Part II: Treatment. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2022 Sep;12(9):1989-2012.
  2. Philipp-Dormston WG. Melasma: A Step-by-Step Approach Towards a Multimodal Combination Therapy. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2024 May 22;17:1203-121
  3. Fabian IM, Sinnathamby ES, Flanagan CJ, Lindberg A, Tynes B, Kelkar RA, Varrassi G, Ahmadzadeh S, Shekoohi S, Kaye AD. Topical Hydroquinone for Hyperpigmentation: A Narrative Review. Cureus. 2023 Nov 15;15(11):e48840.
  4. Schwartz C, Jan A, Zito PM. Hydroquinone. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539693/ August 22, 2023. Accessed July 22, 2025
  5. Zilles JC, Dos Santos FL, Kulkamp-Guerreiro IC, Contri RV. Biological activities and safety data of kojic acid and its derivatives: A review. Exp Dermatol. 2022 Oct;31(10):1500-1521.
  6. Saeedi M, Eslamifar M, Khezri K. Kojic acid applications in cosmetic and pharmaceutical preparations. Biomed Pharmacother. 2019 Feb;110:582-593.
  7. Phasha V, Senabe J, Ndzotoyi P, Okole B, Fouche G, Chuturgoon A. Review on the Use of Kojic Acid—A Skin-Lightening Ingredient. Cosmetics. 2022; 9(3):64.

Hydroquinone1-4

Hydroquinone affects the melanogenesis process by inhibiting tyrosinase. It also inhibits DNA and RNA synthesis and suppresses the formation of melanosomes. The ability of hydroquinone to affect the melanocyte metabolic process may lead to a decrease in the production of melanin.

Kojic acid1,2,5-7

Kojic acid is thought to chelate copper. Copper is needed at the active site of the tyrosinase enzyme. This action inhibits the activity of the tyrosinase enzyme. The tyrosinase enzyme is needed for melanin production.

Common3-9 

  • Burning sensation, irritation, erythema

Serious3-9 

  • Exogenous ochronosis with prolonged hydroquinone use

Contraindications3-9 

  • Hypersensitivity or intolerance to hydroquinone or kojic acid
  • Presence of active dermatitis, eczema, or open wounds at the application site

Precautions3-9 

  • Use with other agents that can dry or irritate the skin (retinoids, benzoyl peroxide)

Store at 20–25°C (68–77°F) in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep container tightly closed.

  1. Cassiano DP, Espósito ACC, da Silva CN, Lima PB, Dias JAF, Hassun K, Miot LDB, Miot HA, Bagatin E. Update on Melasma-Part II: Treatment. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2022 Sep;12(9):1989-2012.
  2. Philipp-Dormston WG. Melasma: A Step-by-Step Approach Towards a Multimodal Combination Therapy. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2024 May 22;17:1203-121
  3. Fabian IM, Sinnathamby ES, Flanagan CJ, Lindberg A, Tynes B, Kelkar RA, Varrassi G, Ahmadzadeh S, Shekoohi S, Kaye AD. Topical Hydroquinone for Hyperpigmentation: A Narrative Review. Cureus. 2023 Nov 15;15(11):e48840.
  4. Schwartz C, Jan A, Zito PM. Hydroquinone. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539693/ August 22, 2023. Accessed July 22, 2025
  5. Zilles JC, Dos Santos FL, Kulkamp-Guerreiro IC, Contri RV. Biological activities and safety data of kojic acid and its derivatives: A review. Exp Dermatol. 2022 Oct;31(10):1500-1521.
  6. Saeedi M, Eslamifar M, Khezri K. Kojic acid applications in cosmetic and pharmaceutical preparations. Biomed Pharmacother. 2019 Feb;110:582-593.
  7. Phasha V, Senabe J, Ndzotoyi P, Okole B, Fouche G, Chuturgoon A. Review on the Use of Kojic Acid—A Skin-Lightening Ingredient. Cosmetics. 2022; 9(3):64.
  8. PandeyA, Jatana GK, Sonthalia S.Cosmeceuticals. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544223/ Accessed July 22, 2025
  9. Bhattar PA, Zawar VP, Godse KV, Patil SP, Nadkarni NJ, Gautam MM. Exogenous Ochronosis. Indian J Dermatol. 2015 Nov-Dec;60(6):537-43.
This information is for educational purposes only.
This compounded product has not been reviewed, approved, or evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration for safety and effectiveness. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. No claims are made regarding treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease or condition.
This information is a summary. It may not cover all possible drug information about this product. For complete product information, refer to the manufacturer’s prescribing information and labeling. Call your doctor for medical advice and/or about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. A WP Pharma Labs pharmacist will be happy to answer any questions. For consultation, please call 1-800-441-0048.

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