Is Hydroquinone safe during pregnancy?
Skin lightener best avoided in pregnancy because much more is absorbed than with most topicals. Common swaps: azelaic acid, vitamin C.
What the sources say
A Canadian Family Physician review singles out hydroquinone for its relatively high absorption through skin, and AAD lists it among ingredients to avoid in pregnancy. FDA says OTC hydroquinone lighteners are not legally marketed in the US (it is prescription-only, e.g., Tri-Luma) and some imported creams also contain mercury. LactMed: not studied in breastfeeding; not contraindicated, but some experts advise against long-term use. Keep treated skin away from the baby.
Common alternatives
Also listed as
1,4-benzenediol, hq, hydroquinone cream, p-hydroxyphenol, quinol, tri-luma
Sources
- NIH PubMed (peer-reviewed review): Safety of skin care products during pregnancy (Can Fam Physician, 2011)
- AAD: Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin care
- FDA: FDA Warns Consumers of Skin Products Containing Mercury and/or Hydroquinone
- NIH LactMed: Hydroquinone - Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed)
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.