Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone (CAS 123-31-9) is a dihydric phenol compound also known by the common names quinol, b-quinol, and Arctuvin. It carries no assigned E-code and is classified under HS code 29072200. It is commercially available as a pharmaceutical intermediate with established industrial applications across cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, printing, and food packaging.

In pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations, hydroquinone inhibits melanin synthesis by blocking the enzyme tyrosinase, making it a functional active in skin-lightening preparations. In photographic and printing applications, it acts as a developing agent by reducing silver halide salts. As an antioxidant, it scavenges free radicals to stabilize monomers and prevent premature polymerization during storage and transport.

Hydroquinone is supplied in pharmaceutical and technical grades as a crystalline powder, with quality benchmarks referenced against Ph.Eur. and USP monographs. It falls under REACH regulation and requires an SDS compliant with EU GHS standards. Standard packaging includes fiber drums and multi-layer bags; documentation for controlled substance compliance is available on request.