mequinol

Mequinol is a small molecule topical agent primarily used for the treatment of skin hyperpigmentation disorders such as solar lentigines (age spots or liver spots), melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It is most commonly formulated in combination with tretinoin and marketed under the brand name Solage. Mequinol acts as a melanin synthesis inhibitor by serving as a substrate for tyrosinase and competitively inhibiting the formation of melanin precursors. This results in reduced melanin production and subsequent lightening of hyperpigmented skin lesions. Additionally, mequinol can be oxidized within melanocytes to form cytotoxic quinones that damage pigment cells, further contributing to its depigmenting effect[2][5][6][8]. The exact mechanism of action remains incompletely understood but involves both inhibition of tyrosinase activity and melanocytotoxicity[2][6][8].

Brand names

Solage

Other names

4-hydroxyanisolep-methoxyphenol