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Quick answer: Both score equally on our risk model. Hydroquinone is banned in the EU and allowed in the US; Sodium perborate is banned in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Hydroquinone | Sodium perborate |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | skin-lightening cream, dark-spot corrector | hair bleach, whitening products |
Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent that inhibits melanin production.
Sodium perborate (Sodium Perborate) is a bleaching and oxidizing agent.
Hydroquinone: Linked to ochronosis and possible carcinogenicity. Banned in EU cosmetics; sold over-the-counter in the US up to 2%.
Sodium perborate: A reproductive toxicant (borate); banned/restricted in EU cosmetics.
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