Hydroquinone is a type of phenol, and it is an aromatic compound. It is a popular ingredient used for skin whitening purposes. It is used to resolve problems of hyperpigmentation on the body. People who have used these products with active component have suffered some of the side effects.
Skin whitening products are not the only products that are made up of hydroquinone. It can be found on numerous items also including the facial moisturizers, hair conditioners, and skin soaps. Also, it is also used in other products such as sunscreen, concealer, moisturizer and anti-aging products.
Some of the adverse effects of harsh skin whitening ingredients are shown here;
The increase of the skin’s sensitivity to the sun
This is the common result of using creams with hydroquinone. Therefore, people who are totally exposed to this agent are advised to limit their activities under the sun.
Mild burning or redness of the skin
Considering that it is a common ingredient in skin care products, the primary part of the body that will be disturbed is the skin. The skin is in direct contact with it, so it suffers from the first blast of side effect.
Different allergies can be developed as well
Some of these are the following: inhaling and exhaling issues, swelling of the face or some of its parts like the lips, mouth, or tongue, and the appearance of rashes on the skin.
Skin sensitivity increases
It is not a good idea, therefore, to use harsh soaps and ointments on areas where hydroquinone is used.
Causes cancer
Research show that it is a cancer-causing substance; immunotoxic and developmental and reproductive toxicant, and also recognizes concerns regarding the ingredient’s risks for various organ systems, the endocrine system, and neurotoxicity.
Related to ochronosis infection
Skin whitening products are related to a disease known as the ochronosis which is the thickening of the skin and darkening. A sign of this disease is the appearance of dome-shaped yellowish or golden-tinged spots on the skin.
Leads to abnormal functioning of the adrenalin glands
Also, because of its several outcomes to human health, hydroquinone is regarded to be one of the toxic ingredients used in the cosmetic products. It can contaminant other components of the cosmetic products.
There are other toxic components that may be added in skin lightening products. The most common are mercury and the steroid. Mercury is a positively dangerous element and is banned not only in the area of cosmetics but also in some areas such as in medical equipment. Steroids, on the other hand, can cause difficulties such as hormonal imbalance.
Despite the presence of harsh skin whitening ingredients, there are still products that contain safe ingredients.
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