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.
Global status.
How hydroquinone is regulated in cosmetics 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.
Details
Banned as skin lightener; permitted in hair dye, mirroring EU.
Details
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.
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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.
Details
Banned in cosmetics by ANVISA; above 2% classified as drug.
Details
Available as prescription drug; restricted in cosmetics.
Details
Banned under ASEAN Cosmetic Directive Annex II.
The reason brands include it.
The most effective topical skin-lightening agent available. Used to treat melasma, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation.
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products in our database
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brands use it
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product categories
Hydroquinone in product types.
Click a category to see every product containing hydroquinone.
Common alternatives.
What Numbrrrz uses
Numbrrrz does not use hydroquinone. Every tube is organic coconut oil, organic beeswax, organic jojoba oil and vitamin E, plus organic essential oils or flavoring in the scented versions.