Name Hydroquinone Description Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent commonly used to treat hyperpigmentation, melasma, age spots, and other forms of skin discoloration. It works by inhibiting an enzyme (tyrosinase) involved in melanin production, which can reduce dark spots and even out skin tone. Benefits Hydroquinone is highly effective in treating hyperpigmentation and is often recommended for cases where other treatments may not be as effective. Considerations • Skin Darkening
Prolonged use of hydroquinone (especially over several years) may lead to a condition called ochronosis, which causes blue-black darkening of the skin. This risk is more common with higher concentrations and extended use, which is why most experts recommend limiting usage to short periods.
• Suspected Carcinogen
Hydroquinone is a suspected carcinogen.
• Genotoxic
Hydroquinone is suspected to damage DNA.
• Birth Defects
Suspected to cause birth defects.
• Skin Irritation/Allergies
Can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
• Environmental Concerns
Highly toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects. Synonyms Benzene-1,4-diol
1,4-benzenediol
Quinol
1,4-Dihydroxybenzene
p-Benzenediol
p-Hydroquinone
p-Hydroxyphenol
4-Hydroxyphenol
p-Dihydroxybenzene
Benzoquinol
hydroquinol
Dihydroquinone
Eldoquin
p-Dioxybenzene
Solaquin forte
Eldopaque
Hydroquinole
Idrochinone
Tecquinol
Phiaquin
Benzohydroquinone
Hidroquinone
Arctuvin
Tequinol
Dihydroxybenzene
Eldopaque Forte
Eldoquin Forte
Derma-Blanch
Hydrochinon
Tenox HQ
Diak 5
Benzene, p-dihydroxy-
Hydrochinone
1,4-Dihydroxy-benzol
Artra
Usaf ek-356
1,4-Diidrobenzene
p-Dioxobenzene
1,4-Dihydroxybenzen
para-Dioxybenzene
para-Hydroquinone Research Sources https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/785
https://www.cir-safety.org/supplementaldoc/amended-safety-assessment-hydroquinone-used-cosmetics
https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/Hydroq_032014_Rep.pdf
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23744186/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18358459/ Summary Carcinogenic, linked to birth defects, skin irritation and damage, genotoxicity.