Hydroquinone is been banned in Japan, the European Union, and Australia.
Why?
Photosensitivity
Hydroquinone topical solutions can make skin more sensitive to sunlight (photosensitivity). People using these preparations should avoid exposure to sunlamps and tanning beds and wear protective clothing and sunscreen when in sunlight. Exposure to ultraviolet light can cause severe sunburn when using hydroquinone. Applying hydroquinone to skin that is sunburned, windburned, chapped or irritated can worsen these conditions.
Carcinogenic Properties
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.
Allergic Reaction
Although unlikely, some people may experience an allergic reaction to hydroquinone. Signs, as listed by Drugs.com, include severe burning or stinging sensations, hives, breathing trouble, and facial, throat or mouth swelling. An allergic reaction to hydroquinone should be considered a medical emergency.
Toxicity
When taken orally in large amounts, as in uva ursi, hydroquinone is toxic, states Drugs.com. It may cause ringing of the ears, nausea, seizures and bluish skin due to insufficient oxygen in the blood (cyanosis). Large amounts of oral hydroquinone also can cause liver damage. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking uva ursi for no longer than five days and no more than five separate times in a year.
There is another great alternative to hydroquinone with organic plant-based ingredients.
Alternative
We love the Super White Bio-Serum, Fast Action Skin Brightening And Lightning, organic, vegan and kosher.
Created with the top whitening safe, natural actives ingredients.
I’m Fabulous® Super white bio serum, in fact, penetrate fully into the dermal layer, and natural skin brighteners that have been clinically proven to be more effective than hydroquinone restore damaged cells to their more youthful integrity for a younger more even-toned complexion. Safe for daily use and for pregnant women.
A super fast, intensive, and safe approach to skin brightening and lightening. Formulated to penetrate deep into the skin to lighten skin discoloration and pigmentation problems. Skin tone balancer brightens skin, evens out skin tone, Helps to lighten dark spots left over from acne. Progressively and uniformly moisturize, brighten and condition your skin. An exceptional leave-on AHA product that enhances the penetration of the Brightening Creme (rapid results) as well as promotes an evening of the complexion.
