The Basics On Hydroquinone
What is Hydroquinone?
Also known as benzene-1,4-diol or quinol, is an aromatic organic compound that is a type of phenol, a derivative of benzene.
What are other names for Hydroquinone?
1,4-BENZENEDIOL, 1,4-DIHYDROXYBENZENE, 1,4BENZENEDIOL, 4-HYDROXYPHENOL, HYDROQUINONE, P-DIOXYBENZENE, and P-HYDROXYPHENOL
What is Hydroquinone used for?
Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent. It bleaches the skin, which can be helpful when treating different forms of hyperpigmentation.
How Hydroquinone is classified
Skin-Restoring, Antioxidants
Recommendations for using Hydroquinone during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Avoid
Hydroquinone During Pregnancy
What we know about using Hydroquinone while pregnant or breastfeeding
Avoid using products that contain hydroquinone during pregnancy or while you’re breastfeeding. The same is true for the brightening ingredient arbutin and derivatives such as alpha-arbutin because both break down to hydroquinone on skin. Instead, look to brightening products that contain 5% or greater concentrations of niacinamide and various forms of vitamin C.
Hydroquinone is used clinically as a topical depigmenting agent for conditions such as chloasma and melasma, and it is used cosmetically as a skin-whitening agent. It has been estimated that 35% to 45% is systemically absorbed following topical use in humans.9 A single study has been published involving the use of hydroquinone during pregnancy with no increase in adverse events; however, the sample size of pregnant women was small.29 Based on available data, hydroquinone use during pregnancy does not appear to be associated with increased risk of major malformations or other adverse effects. However, because of substantial absorption compared with other products, it is best to minimize exposure until further studies can confirm safety.
General safety info about Hydroquinone from CIR
No report found.
Use this, not that!
Zinc oxide
Products where you might find Hydroquinone
VI Derm Skin Lightening Complex 2% Hydroquinone; only 1 product listed; Murad Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum; SUNDAY RILEY U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil; Murad Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum Mini
List of References
General sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/
1. Breathnach A. Melanin hyperpigmentation of skin: melasma, topical treatment with azelaic acid, and other therapies. Cutis. 1996;57(1 Suppl):36-45. [PubMed] 2. Draelos ZD. Skin lightening preparations and the hydroquinone controversy. Dermatologic Therapy. 2007;22(5):308-313. doi:10.1111/j.1529-8019.2007.00144.x 3. Rendon M, Gaviria J. Review of skin-lightening agents. Dermatol Surg. 2005;31(7 Pt 2):886-9; discussion 889. [PubMed] 4. Kanthraj G. Skin-lightening agents: New chemical and plant extracts -ongoing search for the holy grail! Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology. 2010;76(1):3. doi:10.4103/0378-6323.58671 5. Olumide Y, Akinkugbe D, Altraide D, Mohaamed T, Ahamefule N. Complications of chronic use of skin lightening cosmetics. International Journal of Dermatology. 2008;47(4):344-353. doi:10.1111/j.1365-4632.2008.02719.x 6. Hydroquinone. EWG’s Skin Deep Cosmetic Database. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/703041/HYDROQUINONE/#.W7B80mgzZhE. Published 2018. Accessed October 2018. Related Articles: Glossary: Glycolic Acid Glossary: Poly-Hydroxy Acids Glossary: Aloesin Glossary: Arbutin Glossary: Kojic Acid Glossary: Azelaic acid Glossary: N-acetyl glucosamine Glossary: Mequinol Glossary: Vitamin B3
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
