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The safety of hydroquinone.

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV (2006-08-11)
J J Nordlund, P E Grimes, J P Ortonne
ABSTRACT

Hydroquinone is one of the most effective molecules for the treatment of hyperpigmentary disorders, with over 40 years of efficacy and safety data. Concerns over its safety have been raised because of the fact that it is a derivative of benzene and because of the long-term side-effects observed with cosmetic products containing high concentrations of hydroquinone. However, despite 40-50 years use of hydroquinone for medical conditions, there has not been a single documented case of either a cutaneous or internal malignancy associated with this drug. This article reviews the evidence for the safety of hydroquinone in the treatment of hyperpigmentation conditions.

MATERIALS
Product Number
Brand
Product Description

Sigma-Aldrich
Hydroquinone, ReagentPlus®, 99%
Sigma-Aldrich
Hydroquinone, meets USP testing specifications
Sigma-Aldrich
Hydroquinone, ReagentPlus®, ≥99%
Sigma-Aldrich
Hydroquinone, JIS special grade, ≥99.0%
Supelco
Hydroquinone, certified reference material, TraceCERT®, Manufactured by: Sigma-Aldrich Production GmbH, Switzerland
USP
Hydroquinone, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard