Korean: 하이드로퀴논 · CAS 123-31-9 · Functions: antioxidant, bleaching, fragrance, hair dyeing, reducing
Restricted MFDS restricted ingredients
Source: MFDS — cosmetic ingredient use restrictions · checked Oct 16, 2026
Prohibited Annex II/1339
Conditions: 1,4-Dihydroxybenzene (Hydroquinone), with the exception of entry 14 in Annex III
Source: EU CosIng — Annex II · checked Oct 16, 2026
Restricted Annex III/14
Maximum: 0.02% (after mixing for use)
Conditions: Product type: Artificial nail systems Professional use
Required label warning: - For professional use only - Avoid skin contact - Read directions for use carefully
Source: EU CosIng — Annex III · checked Oct 16, 2026
No specific rule on file. The FDA regulates few cosmetic ingredients by name; no rule does not mean approval.
How Hydroquinone is treated in 5 more markets, from the overseas cosmetic regulation database compiled by Korea's MFDS. Always confirm with the regulator of that country before selling there.
| Market | Status | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| CN China | Restricted | — |
| AS ASEAN (10 countries) | Restricted | MFDS summary (Korean): * 【Restrictions】 Field of application and/or use : Artificial nail systems * 제한 【사용 범위】 : 인조 손톱에 * 【Restrictions】 Maximum authorised concentration in the finished cosmetic product : 0.02% after mixing for use * 제한 【완제품에서 허용된 최대 농도】 : 혼합하여 사용 후 0.02% * 【Restrictions】 Other limitations and... |
| CA Canada | Restricted | 【Restrictions】 Conditions of Use by product type : (a) Oxidizing colouring agent for hair dyes (b) Nail products (c) Cyanoacrylate adhesive products for eyelash and eyebrow extensions 【Restrictions】 Maximum Concentration Permitted : (a) 0.3% (b) 0.1% If hydroquinone and p-hydroxyanisole are used in the same product, the total concentration of the 2 ingredients may not exceed 0.1% (c)... |
| BR Brazil | Restricted | MFDS summary (Korean): with the exception of entry 14 in Annex III^Annex III의 entry 14는 제외 |
| AR Argentina | Restricted | MFDS summary (Korean): with the exception of entry 14 in Annex III^Annex III의 entry 14는 제외 |
Source: MFDS cosmetic ingredient use restrictions — overseas regulations · checked Oct 16, 2026
HYDROQUINONE 하이드로퀴논
Information only, not medical advice. Rules change — always check the linked official source. If you are pregnant, have a skin condition or allergies, ask a dermatologist or pharmacist.