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Quick answer: Both score equally on our risk model. Mercury compounds is banned in the EU and allowed in the US; Hydroquinone is banned in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Mercury compounds | Hydroquinone |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Banned | Banned |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | high | high |
| Banned in | European Union | European Union |
| Restricted in | — | — |
| Category | heavy metal | cmr |
| Where it hides | skin-lightening cream, mascara | skin-lightening cream, dark-spot corrector |
Mercury compounds is mercury and mercury salts used as preservatives and skin lighteners.
Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent that inhibits melanin production.
Mercury compounds: Mercury is a potent neurotoxin. Banned in EU cosmetics; the US limits it to trace levels but enforcement gaps allow contaminated imports.
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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