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.