Hydroquinone is one of the most widely used ingredients in just about every skin lightening product on the market. However, information has come to light that has caused the FDA to ban the use of hydroquinone in skin lightening products. What is the cause of the ban and what does that mean for those seeking this type of skin treatment?

If you look at any label on a skin lightening product, chances are you’ll see the ingredient hydroquinone. For years, this ingredient has been responsible for the most effective skin lightening treatments. In 2006, the FDA publicly announced the ban of over-the-counter cosmetic products containing hydroquinone. According to the ban, only products that contain 2% hydroquinone in its formula are allowed for sale in the United States without a prescription, and 4% for those prescribed by a doctor. So for those of you that rely on this ingredient for your skin lightening treatments, the good news is that hydroquinone hasn’t been completely eliminated from the market.

The reason for the ban is based off evidence that hydroquinone acts as a cancer-causing chemical. Tests done on rodents have shown these results, although it has yet to be tested and proved in humans. In addition to these findings, other studies in the United States, Britain and South Africa have shown that patients who used skin lightening treatments with hydroquinone reported abnormal adrenal gland functions and high levels of mercury in the body. Because of these findings, the FDA had no choice but to ban the ingredient until further research is conducted. Countries such as Japan, Australia and certain parts of Europe have also announced the same bans.

For those who have been using hydroquinone skin lightening products or cosmetics, consult with your doctor and monitor yourself carefully. If you haven’t been experiencing any problems, continue to use your current treatments under the guidance of your doctor.

Hydroquinone isn’t the only ingredient that can provide skin lightening results. In place of hydroquinone, arbutin is one skin lightening agent that is becoming popular. Arbutin is an extract from the Bearberry plant that not only protects the skin against free radical damage, but also prevents melanin production by inhibiting Tyrosinase activity (an enzyme in the skin’s pigment cells that produces melanin). Many Asian countries use skin lightening treatments containing arbutin to prevent pigmentation, whiten and brighten skin, and prevent liver spots, freckles and other marks.

Unlike hydroquinone, arbutin is completely safe and is even produced through an environmentally friendly process. Products that contain arbutin don’t carry unpleasant side effects like bad odors and toxicity. Continued use of arbutin products have been proven to aid in skin whitening effects, anti-aging properties and protection from UV rays.

Aside from arbutin, there are many skin lightening cosmetic products that contain perfectly safe and natural ingredients including ascorbic acid, vitamin C, azealic acid and kojic acid.

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