Hydroquinone in Cosmetics

The application gives the method for determination of the content of hydroquinone in cosmetic products using UV/VIS spectroscopy at 289 nm using a METTLER TOLEDO UV/VIS Excellence Spectrophotometer.

Why is Hydroquinone content checked in Cosmetics?

Hydroquinone is an organic compound of the phenol family used as a skin-bleaching agent to lighten the area of darkened skin. Therefore, it is widely used in cosmetics. In 1982, FDA proposed the presence of 1.5 – 2.0% of hydroquinone in drugs as a GRASE (Generally Recognize as a Safe and Effective). Later in 2006, this rule has been withdrawn because evidences indicate hydroquinone as carcinogen and possible cause of ochronosis (skin darkening and disfiguration)

This application note includes:

• Introduction
• Sample Preparation and Procedures
• Solutions and Chemicals
• Instruments and Accessories
• Method in Detail
• Results and Remarks

And method files (.lmt and .xml) for direct import and implementation on the instrument.