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Is Hydroquinone banned?

Yes. Hydroquinone is banned, restricted, or carries a mandatory warning label in 1 country including European Union. The US FDA still permits it, which is why it shows up in everyday American food and beauty products.

Countries where Hydroquinone is banned or restricted

Country / RegionStatus
European UnionBanned or restricted

Why Hydroquinone is flagged

Linked to ochronosis and possible carcinogenicity. Banned in EU cosmetics; sold over-the-counter in the US up to 2%.

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