Glyquin XM deserves its cult following: it clears breakouts, erases hyperpigmentation, plumps wrinkles... and it's no longer available.

Fortunately, the starring ingredients which satisfy users of Glyquin XM continue to be available in other products. It's a question of using the right ingredients together — and carefully — to achieve the results you want.

The Key Ingredients

When it comes to skin lightening, the gold standard is 4% hydroquinone as available in [Link Removed] derived from sugar which plays a significant role in chemical exfoliation and skin refinishing. Other skin lighteners contain glycolic as well, but Glyquin XM has a higher concentration — 10% versus the usual 2, 3 or 5%. The higher concentration of this star exfoliant allows the hydroquinone to penetrate deeper into the tissues of the skin, with faster results.

How To Fake It

You can approximate the results from Glyquin XM by using a spot lightener with 4% hydroquinone (such as one of the three brands named above) together with a refinishing product containing a good chemical exfoliant. Options for the exfoliant include these PharmacyMix top picks:

1.[Link Removed] with 10% glycolic acid as well as 2% salicylic acid, this product is good for occasional use even for those without acne.
Tips for Combining Products

1.Always do a patch test first. This means covering a small area (about a square centimetre) in an inconspicuous area such as behind the ear. Wait 24 hours and watch for signs of irritation before proceeding. Do this whenever you introduce a new product or when you want to try layering two products.
2.Start slowly. Don't overwhelm your skin by giving it a lot of new treatments.You can start by using a new product every 3 days or so, gradually building up your usage. Alternate products for maximum effectiveness. Make a moisturizer one of these; you're going to need it.
3.Expect a little drying, tingling or redness at first. Your skin should adjust after continued use. If it doesn't, discontinue use and give your skin a break. You may wish to consult a dermatologist.
4.Protect yourself from UV. While using hydroquinone or AHAs, the sun is not your friend. Make protection from UV your #1 priority by day and keep night for treatments. This means a photostable, broad spectrum sunscreen such as [Link Removed] for more information on precautions.

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Sharmani Pillay is a Registered Pharmacist who specializes in anti aging skin care and women's wellness. She owns and operates an online skin care store at [Link Removed]
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