Hydroquinone
Also known as: 1,4-dihydroxybenzene, 1,4-benzenediol, quinol, hydroquinol
A skin-lightening agent that works by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production. Hydroquinone is effective at reducing hyperpigmentation but carries serious risks including ochronosis (paradoxical skin darkening), organ toxicity, and potential carcinogenicity. Banned in the EU, Japan, and Australia for cosmetic use.
1 = low concern, 10 = avoid
Risk by Usage Frequency
How risk changes depending on how often you use products containing Hydroquinone.
Short-term supervised use (8-12 weeks) under dermatologist care may be acceptable for severe hyperpigmentation.
Daily use beyond 12 weeks significantly increases ochronosis and systemic toxicity risk.
Extremely dangerous. Chronic overuse is the leading cause of exogenous ochronosis worldwide.
Health Risks
Can cause exogenous ochronosis — irreversible blue-black darkening of the skin — with prolonged use.
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2006 — hydroquinone-induced ochronosis
Classified as a possible human carcinogen. Linked to leukemia and liver tumors in animal studies.
IARC — hydroquinone evaluation
Causes oxidative DNA damage and cytotoxicity in skin cells.
Skin sensitizer that can cause severe allergic contact dermatitis and chemical burns at higher concentrations.
Global Regulatory Status
How hydroquinone is regulated in cosmetics and personal care products around the world.
100% of countries with data ban or restrict this ingredient
Details
FDA proposed ban on OTC use; currently up to 2% OTC, >2% by prescription.
Details
Banned as skin-whitening agent under Annex II; permitted only in oxidative hair dye at limited concentrations.
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Banned as skin lightener; permitted in hair dye, mirroring EU.
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Above 2% classified as prescription drug; limited use in nail products.
Details
Classified as quasi-drug at 2% for skin lightening; not in general cosmetics.
Details
Banned for skin lightening; permitted in hair dye only.
Details
Prescription above 2%; OTC at lower concentrations.
Details
Banned as skin-whitening agent per Safety Technical Standards.
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Banned in cosmetics by ANVISA; above 2% classified as drug.
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Available as prescription drug; restricted in cosmetics.
Details
Banned under ASEAN Cosmetic Directive Annex II.
Why Brands Use Hydroquinone
The most effective topical skin-lightening agent available. Used to treat melasma, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation.
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Better alternatives exist. Brands choose hydroquinone because it's cheap and effective, but safer options like vitamin C (ascorbic acid), niacinamide, alpha arbutin deliver similar results without the health concerns.
Hydroquinone in Product Categories
Click a category to see every product containing hydroquinone in that category, with full ingredient breakdowns.
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Safe Alternatives
What Numbrrrz Uses Instead
Numbrrrz never uses hydroquinone in any product. Our lip balms nourish skin with organic plant oils and vitamin E — no skin-lightening agents or their associated risks.
