Q: What is Luminance designed to address?
A: Luminance is intended for targeted treatment of hyperpigmentation concerns such as melasma and persistent dark patches when our healthcare provider determines this combination is appropriate.
Q: How does hydroquinone work on dark spots?
A: Hydroquinone inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in producing melanin. Reducing melanin production can gradually improve the appearance of areas with excess pigmentation.
Q: Why does Luminance contain more than one pigmentation ingredient?
A: Hyperpigmentation involves several biological processes. Hydroquinone, kojic acid, and azelaic acid have different properties relevant to pigmentation, allowing the formula to approach uneven tone through more than one pathway.
Q: Why is hydrocortisone included?
A: Hydrocortisone reduces inflammation in the skin. It is not included simply as a cosmetic brightening ingredient and should only be used for the duration prescribed because prolonged corticosteroid exposure can cause unwanted skin effects.
Q: Should I apply Luminance all over my face?
A: Not unless specifically instructed. Luminance is intended to be applied in a thin layer to the areas identified by our healthcare provider as requiring treatment.
Q: Why does the treatment include a break?
A: Hydroquinone and topical corticosteroids require appropriate duration and monitoring. After an initial treatment period of approximately 8–12 weeks, our healthcare provider can evaluate your response and determine whether a break, maintenance approach, or different treatment is appropriate.