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Quick answer: Both score equally on our risk model. Coal tar is banned in the EU and allowed in the US; Hydroquinone is banned in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Coal tar | Hydroquinone |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Banned | Banned |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | high | high |
| Banned in | European Union | European Union |
| Restricted in | — | — |
| Category | cmr | cmr |
| Where it hides | anti-dandruff shampoo, hair dye, psoriasis products | skin-lightening cream, dark-spot corrector |
Coal tar is a complex byproduct of coal processing used in dandruff and psoriasis products and dyes.
Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent that inhibits melanin production.
Coal tar: A known human carcinogen. Restricted in the EU (banned in hair dye); permitted in US OTC products.
Hydroquinone: Linked to ochronosis and possible carcinogenicity. Banned in EU cosmetics; sold over-the-counter in the US up to 2%.
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