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Hydroquinone is the LeBron James of skin care. The skin lightener is as controversial as it is effective. When incorporated into your complexion regimen properly, hydroquinone decreases the production of melanin by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme needed for melanin production, to decrease the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Because of this, many people consider it to be a skin-bleaching ingredient. According to Miami-based board-certified dermatologist Roberta Del Campo, it should be considered a "color blender" instead.