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Quick answer: Hydroquinone carries the heavier risk profile. Hydroquinone is banned in the EU and allowed in the US; Selenium sulfide is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Hydroquinone | Selenium sulfide |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Banned | Restricted |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | high | medium |
| Banned in | European Union | — |
| Restricted in | — | European Union |
| Category | cmr | cmr |
| Where it hides | skin-lightening cream, dark-spot corrector | anti-dandruff shampoo |
Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent that inhibits melanin production.
Selenium sulfide (Selenium Sulfide) is an antifungal dandruff active.
Hydroquinone: Linked to ochronosis and possible carcinogenicity. Banned in EU cosmetics; sold over-the-counter in the US up to 2%.
Selenium sulfide: Restricted in the EU; a US OTC dandruff active with limited oversight.
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