Can hydroquinone Cause skin cancer?

Rodent studies involving very high doses of hydroquinone administered by feeding tube showed the potential to cause cancer, according to the FDA report on hydroquinone skin bleaching products. No carcinogenic properties have been associated with topical or oral hydroquinone use in humans.

How harmful is hydroquinone to the skin?

Results: Hydroquinone caused structural disruptions of the stratum corneum of the epidermis and the overlying keratin. p65 was also prominently expressed in the treated groups. Hydroquinone reduced skin thickness and caused epidermis disruption.

Can hydroquinone be used safely?

Hydroquinone is a chemical that a person can use to lighten their skin tone. It is available as a cream, gel, lotion, or emulsion. Hydroquinone is generally safe to use, but some people may experience side effects, such as dry skin.

Why is hydroquinone banned?

“Hydroquinone has been long banned in Europe because it is cyto-toxic, meaning it is toxic to the cells to prevent making of melanin pigments,” explains cosmetic chemist Ginger King.

What is the safest skin-lightening product?

Top 10 Safe Skin Lightening Ingredients

1. Kojic Acid. Usually made as a by-product of malted rice – that’s used to make sake/rice wine, Kojic acid is an all-natural lightening and brightening skincare active.
2. Vitamin C.
3. Alpha-arbutin.
4. Niacinamide.
5. Glutathione.
6. Azelaic acid.
7. Glycolic acid.
8. Linoleic acid.

Can hydroquinone cause liver damage?

“Hydroquinone can remove the top layer of skin, increasing the risk of skin cancer and cause fatal liver and kidney damage,” the LGA found.

Can hydroquinone make dark spots worse?

Hydroquinone may cause local skin irritation, however, and thereby leading to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, making the skin pigmentation worse.

What happens if I stop using hydroquinone?

If your skin lightens, stop using hydroquinone regularly and only use it if the dark spots reappear. Wait two or three months to use it in the same areas. Prolonged regular use of hydroquinone may lead to exogenous ochronosis, which can cause blue-black pigmentation and papules, red bumps on the skin.

Can I use hydroquinone all over my face?

While it can be used to treat focal areas, it is often best to apply this agent to the whole face and apply a heavier amount over the darkest regions. This helps prevent a blotchy complexion.

Who should not use hydroquinone?

Do not use hydroquinone topical on open wounds or on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 2 months, or if your condition gets worse.

What is the truth about hydroquinone?

In the U.S., they also are marketed for reducing age spots and blemishes. The reason cited for the proposed ban is that studies in rodents show “some evidence” that hydroquinone may act as a carcinogen or cancer-causing chemical, although its cancer-causing properties have yet to be proved in humans.

What are the dangers of hydroquinone?

Stop using hydroquinone and tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: blistering, skin cracking, blue-black darkening of the skin. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.

Does hydroquinone have a dark side?

Major side effects of hydroquinone are hyper and hypo pigmentation. If patients do not take necessary precaution they can easily develop skin discolorations such as very dark patches of skin or white patches of skin. Doctors recommend patients limit sun exposure or artificial UV light. Do I need a prescription?

Does hydroquinone make your skin more sensitive to the Sun?

Hydroquinone topical can make you sunburn more easily. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors. Some hydroquinone products may contain sunscreen. Check the medicine label or ask your doctor to be sure.

Is Hydroquinone bad for the skin?

Without a doubt, hydroquinone is very effective for treating hyperpigmentation issues. However, its safety is also highly questionable. The reason hydroquinone gets such a bad reputation is because studies have shown that hydroquinone has some carcinogenic effects when applied to skin. It is considered cytotoxic (toxic to cells) and mutagenic.