9 Sneaky Ingredients to Watch Out for in Skin Care Products

Hydroquinone is a very popular and effective lightening agent that can help reduce dark spots and brighten your skin. However, it's quite strong and it shouldn't be used by those who are pregnant and should only be used sparingly.

"Patients use this type of product often to treat skin conditions like melasma. While it can be very effective, long term use can cause a blue-black patches to occur on the treated skin. This side effect is called ochronosis and is not easily reversed," explains Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, a board-certified New York City dermatologist and clinical assistant professor at NY Presbyterian Hospital — Weill Cornell Medical Center.

Vitamin C and niacinamide are both great lightening alternatives to hydroquinone. Try The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%, $5.80 and Peter Thomas Roth Pro Strength Niacinamide Discoloration Treatment, $88.

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