Hydroquinone, also called quinol, is an aromatic organic compound having two hydroxy groups bonded to a benzene ring in a para position. It reduces melanin production, making it an effective agent for reducing dark spots. It is widely used in skin-lightening creams for the treatment of melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and solar lentigines due to its tyrosinase-inhibiting activity.
CAS No.: 123-31-9
Synonyms: 1,4-Benzenediol, Quinol, p-Dihydroxybenzene, p-Hydroxyphenol, 1,4-Dihydroxybenzene
| Physical Properties | |
| Chemical formula | Â C6H6O2 |
| IUPAC name | Benzene-1,4-diol |
| Molecular weight | 110.11 g/mol |
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol, ether, and hot water |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Flash point | 49°C [120°F] |
| Density | 1.230/cm3 |
| Chemical Properties | |
| Color | White or light gray |
| State | Crystal or powder |
| Boiling point | 285-287 °C |
| Melting point | 170-171 °C |
| LogP | 0.59 |
| Vapour density | 0.000019 [mmHg] |
| pKa | 10.85 at 25 °C |
Hydroquinone is generally safe under medical supervision, but there may be possible side effects that occur in some individuals.
| Pictograms : |
|
| Hazard Statements : | H302 – Harmful if swallowed H317 – May cause an allergic skin reaction H318 – Causes serious eye damage H341 – Suspected of causing genetic defects H351 – Suspected of causing cancer H410 – Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects  |
| Precautionary statements : | P273 – Avoid release to the environment. P280 – Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P301 + P312 – IF SWALLOWED: Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell. P302 + P352 – IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P305 + P351 + P338 – IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. P308 + P313 – IF exposed or concerned: Get medical advice/attention. |
Hydroquinone, also called quinol, is an aromatic organic compound having two hydroxy groups bonded to a benzene ring in a para position. It reduces melanin production, making it an effective agent for reducing dark spots. It is widely used in skin-lightening creams for the treatment of melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and solar lentigines due to its tyrosinase-inhibiting activity.
CAS No.: 123-31-9
Synonyms: 1,4-Benzenediol, Quinol, p-Dihydroxybenzene, p-Hydroxyphenol, 1,4-Dihydroxybenzene
| Physical Properties | |
| Chemical formula | Â C6H6O2 |
| IUPAC name | Benzene-1,4-diol |
| Molecular weight | 110.11 g/mol |
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol, ether, and hot water |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Flash point | 49°C [120°F] |
| Density | 1.230/cm3 |
| Chemical Properties | |
| Color | White or light gray |
| State | Crystal or powder |
| Boiling point | 285-287 °C |
| Melting point | 170-171 °C |
| LogP | 0.59 |
| Vapour density | 0.000019 [mmHg] |
| pKa | 10.85 at 25 °C |
Hydroquinone is generally safe under medical supervision, but there may be possible side effects that occur in some individuals.
| Pictograms : |
|
| Hazard Statements : | H302 – Harmful if swallowed H317 – May cause an allergic skin reaction H318 – Causes serious eye damage H341 – Suspected of causing genetic defects H351 – Suspected of causing cancer H410 – Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects  |
| Precautionary statements : | P273 – Avoid release to the environment. P280 – Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P301 + P312 – IF SWALLOWED: Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell. P302 + P352 – IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P305 + P351 + P338 – IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. P308 + P313 – IF exposed or concerned: Get medical advice/attention. |
Hydroquinone lightens the skin by inhibiting melanin production, while tretinoin promotes skin cell health and reduces wrinkles, and it can be used in combination on a daily basis. However, it is advisable to consult with an expert before using this.
Hydroquinone will take almost 4 to 8 weeks to show its effects; however, it also depends on the concentration of the dosage and the sensitivity of the skin.
Hydroquinone is not available over the counter in the United States; to buy hydroquinone, it must be prescribed by a doctor.
Hydroquinone can be absorbed into the bloodstream after topical application. Due to its absorption into the bloodstream, it can potentially cause systemic effects.
Hydroquinone is not a steroid; it is an aromatic phenol compound that works by reducing melanin production. Sometimes combined with steroids in prescription creams for enhanced effects.
Clean the skin thoroughly and apply a thin layer to the affected area, and let it fully absorb. Use twice daily for a few weeks as prescribed by the expert, and wash hands before and after applying the medication.
