Vitiligo (vit-ih-LIE-go) is a disease that causes loss of skin color in patches. The discolored areas usually get bigger with time. The condition can affect the skin on any part of the body. It can also affect hair and the inside of the mouth.
What are the vitiligo treatment options available?
Two ways to treat vitiligo
De-pigmentation: To remove the remaining skin color of unaffected areas.
Re-pigmentation: To recover the skin color of affected areas.
De-pigmentation
If a patient has white patches covering more than 50% of the body surface, doctors may prefer de-pigmentation. De-pigmentation is often an easier approach than re-pigmentation. Monobenzone (MBEH), mequinol, retinol, and imiquimod are used as de-pigmentation agents. Laser and cryotherapy are second-line treatments.
Monobenzone (MBEH) is the only FDA-approved treatment available for de-pigmentation.
Vitiligo treatment example image
Q-switched ND:YAG 532 nm can be used on the face and hands but is often painful. Doctors commonly use analgesics, ice packs, or topical anaesthetics to reduce pain.
So, let’s dive deep into the solution!
What Is Benoquik (Monobenzone 20% Cream)?
Benoquik cream, also known as monobenzone 20%, is used for depigmentation of the skin as a treatment for widespread vitiligo — when irregular patches of depigmentation cover about 50% or more of the body surface.
Monobenzone works by destroying pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. Depigmentation using monobenzone cream is generally permanent and increases sensitivity to sunburn during and after treatment.
Main Ingredients
Benoquik (monobenzone) cream contains monobenzone 20% (mono benzyl ether of hydroquinone) in a water-soluble base that may include sodium lauryl sulfate, purified water, propylene glycol, cetyl alcohol, and white wax.
Monobenzone is the mono-benzyl ether of hydroquinone. When applied topically, it acts as a depigmenting agent by interfering with melanin synthesis and, over time, causing loss of melanocytes in treated skin. This results in permanent lightening of normal skin around vitiligo-affected areas.
How Does Benoquik (Monobenzone 20%) Work?
Monobenzone causes free-radical formation in the skin that can destroy melanocytes. It also interferes with tyrosinase activity, an enzyme involved in melanin production, so the treated skin gradually lightens to match the vitiligo patches.
Uses of Benoquik (Monobenzone cream)
Typical uses include:
Lightening normal skin to match vitiligo-affected areas.
Lightening acne, surgical, and injury scars.
Reducing sun-induced dark spots, age spots, and hyperpigmentation.
Treatment of melasma (brown or grey facial patches).
Treatment of vitiligo when depigmentation is chosen as therapy.
Monobenzone (Benoquik / Benoquin)
Benoquin or Benoquik is commonly recommended for depigmentation. If the skin is affected more than ~60% by vitiligo, some doctors suggest depigmentation. Benoquik 20% cream is used to depigment the remaining pigmented skin.
If you have symptoms of COVID-19, consult your physician before starting any new treatment. Monobenzone should only be used as directed by a physician.
Study summary
In a small study of topical monobenzone usage, 15 vitiligo patients used Benoquik (monobenzone 20%) and achieved visible depigmentation over 4–16 months depending on individual skin response.
Note: Individual responses vary; follow your clinician’s guidance.
Some product pages claim visible results within weeks, but typical depigmentation often takes months. Higher-strength formulations (e.g., references to 60%) should be used only under medical supervision and according to local regulations.
Benoquik vs. Benoquin
Both products reference monobenzone as the active ingredient. Differences often come from formulation, manufacturing quality, and marketing. Below is a simplified comparison table reflecting common claims:
Benoquik
Benoquin
Active ingredient
Monobenzone (depigmenting agent).
Monobenzone (depigmenting agent).
Concentration
Typically 20% monobenzone (product-dependent).
Typically 20% monobenzone (product-dependent).
Usage
Used to permanently lighten skin affected by vitiligo.
Also used to lighten dark patches and hyperpigmentation.
Mode of action
Causes loss of melanocytes; reduces melanin.
Reduces melanin production; may target tyrosinase (depending on formulation).
Side effects
Skin irritation, itching, redness, dryness; increased sun sensitivity.
Skin irritation, itching, redness, dryness; increased sun sensitivity.
Precautions
Typically not recommended on large skin areas or face without medical supervision.
Typically not recommended on large skin areas or face without medical supervision.
Product claims about "higher quality monobenzone" or "better penetration" are marketing statements; always consult peer-reviewed evidence and a dermatologist before starting depigmentation therapy.
Benoquin / Benoquik product image
Other depigmentation agents
Depigmentation agents and related lightening products include:
Monobenzone (topical cream/serum)
Kojic acid (soaps, lotions)
Hydroquinone (ointments)
Azelaic acid (ointments, lotions)
Monobenzone is widely regarded as an effective depigmenting agent for vitiligo when depigmentation is chosen; however, use under medical supervision is essential due to irreversible effects and sun sensitivity.
