Article: Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone
Category: Skin lightening agent
Brief description: Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent used to treat hyperpigmentation, such as age spots, melasma, and acne scars.
Benefits: Effective at reducing the production of melanin, leading to lighter skin tone.
Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for individuals with hyperpigmentation, but not for those with sensitive or reactive skin due to potential irritation.
Target audience: Individuals struggling with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or uneven skin tone.
Chemical composition: Hydroquinone (C6H4(OH)2) is an aromatic organic compound.
Physical aspect: It appears as a white granular solid.
Compatibility: Can react with oxidizing agents, acids, and alkalis.
Concentration: In over-the-counter cosmetics, it's typically used at concentrations up to 2%. Higher concentrations (up to 4%) are available with a prescription in some countries.
Side effects/adverse reactions: Can cause skin irritation, redness, and a condition called ochronosis (a persistent blue-black pigmentation). In rare cases, it can cause allergic reactions.
Regulatory status: Usage and concentrations of hydroquinone are strictly regulated in many countries due to safety concerns. It's banned in the European Union for over-the-counter cosmetics.
Sustainability/ethical considerations: Hydroquinone is typically synthesized in the lab. No specific environmental or ethical concerns are associated with this ingredient.
Brief description: Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent used to treat hyperpigmentation, such as age spots, melasma, and acne scars.
Benefits: Effective at reducing the production of melanin, leading to lighter skin tone.
Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for individuals with hyperpigmentation, but not for those with sensitive or reactive skin due to potential irritation.
Target audience: Individuals struggling with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or uneven skin tone.
Chemical composition: Hydroquinone (C6H4(OH)2) is an aromatic organic compound.
Physical aspect: It appears as a white granular solid.
Compatibility: Can react with oxidizing agents, acids, and alkalis.
Concentration: In over-the-counter cosmetics, it's typically used at concentrations up to 2%. Higher concentrations (up to 4%) are available with a prescription in some countries.
Side effects/adverse reactions: Can cause skin irritation, redness, and a condition called ochronosis (a persistent blue-black pigmentation). In rare cases, it can cause allergic reactions.
Regulatory status: Usage and concentrations of hydroquinone are strictly regulated in many countries due to safety concerns. It's banned in the European Union for over-the-counter cosmetics.
Sustainability/ethical considerations: Hydroquinone is typically synthesized in the lab. No specific environmental or ethical concerns are associated with this ingredient.
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