White wavy lines texture on a surfaceFact Sheet: Hydroquinone.

Fact Sheet: Hydroquinone.

INCI name: Hydroquinone.
Function: Antioxidant, lightening agent, hair coloring agent, masking agent, reducing agent, stabilizing agent.
Origin: Synthetic.
Concentration allowed by European regulations : Prohibited in Europe in cosmetic products. Up to 0.02% in products for the preparation of artificial nails.
Where to find it / them? : Semi-permanent nail polish, skin lightening products, nail glues, moisturizing creams, deodorants/antiperspirants.
Risks to health: Potential carcinogen, potential allergen, potential skin irritant, potential reprotoxic.
Risks to the environment : Aquatic ecotoxicity, poorly biodegradable substance.
More information : In Europe, professional use only. Avoid contact with skin. Also banned in the UK, Japan and South Africa.