HOME ／ Ingredients ／ Brightening
Brightening

Hydroquinone

whitening-grading-trend
Brightening
INCI: Hydroquinone
In short · TL;DR
Category
Brightening
Effect
The most potent melanin production suppression
Concentration
2-5% (pharmaceutical/prescription). In Japan, not an approved quasi-drug whitening active; used in general cosmetics (typically <=2%). The EU prohibits hydroquinone in cosmetics; the US removed OTC 2% products in 2020 (CARES Act) and now requires a prescription. Regulations differ greatly by country
Effect
The most potent melanin production suppression
Mechanism
Irreversibly inhibits tyrosinase. Also has cytotoxicity to melanocytes
Typical concentration
2-5% (pharmaceutical/prescription). In Japan, not an approved quasi-drug whitening active; used in general cosmetics (typically <=2%). The EU prohibits hydroquinone in cosmetics; the US removed OTC 2% products in 2020 (CARES Act) and now requires a prescription. Regulations differ greatly by country
Onset
Brightening effect: 4-8 weeks
Cautions
Risk of exogenous ochronosis with long-term use. Degrades and causes irritation under UV exposure. Use under physician supervision recommended
Evidence & references
One of the most studied brightening ingredients
Journal

Related Journal

2
Ingredients & EvidenceCan You Trust "Clinically Tested"?Skin Longevity SeriesGrading the Buzzwords of Brightening Skincare
This page is reference information and does not guarantee efficacy. Figures vary by test conditions (in vitro / manufacturer / concentration). It does not indicate pharmaceutical efficacy.
← Back to Ingredients