Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone
Skin-lightening agent. Subject to ongoing regulatory review for potential carcinogenicity at higher concentrations — many jurisdictions have moved toward stricter limits. Source: Health Canada Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist (restricted list), compiled from docs/cosmetic-ingredient-database.json. Verify against the live canada.ca Hotlist before relying on it.
Last reviewed April 27, 2026 · Always verify against the current Health Canada Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist before use.
Health Canada Hotlist — Restricted
Max concentration: 2%
Maximum 2% in cosmetic skin-lightening products. Must carry "for external use only" and contact-with-eyes warnings. Concentrations above 2% are regulated as drugs.
Product type restriction: Leave-on products only
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