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Hydroquinone treatments are used to lighten areas of the skin that are affected by blemishes or splotches. While it is usually effective, the dangers of hydroquinone treatment have now been found to include an increased risk of the development of cancer, specifically acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). If you used bleaching cream and have developed this serious disease, you should contact one of our hydroquinone attorneys for help.
Hydroquinone treatment works by breaking down and decreasing the production melanin in skin cells. Melanin is the natural chemical responsible for giving skin and hair its color. The bleaching cream in a hydroquinone treatment is applied directly to areas of discoloration. Hydroquinone treatments are usually done twice a day for up to four weeks. The bleaching cream is sold in 2% concentration as an over the counter product, while concentrations up to 4% are available by prescription.
The dangers of hydroquinone treatment include the risk of acute myelogenous leukemia regardless of whether the bleaching cream used was prescription strength or over-the-counter. The active ingredient in hydroquinone treatments is derived from benzene, which has long been known to be a carcinogen. The dangers of hydroquinone treatment have been confirmed by animal studies which show a link between the compound and cancer.
Any skin condition caused by hyperpigmentation can usually be effectively treated using bleaching cream. Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of an area of the skin caused by increased production of melanin. These can include:
In the past bleaching cream has also been used to treat Melasma. This condition, which is usually found in pregnant women and women taking oral contraceptives, is characterized by dark discolorations around the lips, nose, and forehead.
Consumers who now know the risks of hydroquinone treatment can make an informed decision about use, but past users were unaware that bleaching cream could result in cancer. If you've used a bleaching cream to treat a skin condition and are now suffering from acute myelogenous leukemia, you should contact one of our hydroquinone lawyers. We are available to investigate lawsuits on behalf of people who believe they have a case.
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