Allowed in EU

2-Acetylhydroquinone

A cosmetic ingredient used as antioxidant, bleaching, skin conditioning in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.

What is it?

Ethanone, 1-(2,5-Dihydroxyphenyl)-

What does it do?

2-Acetylhydroquinone is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:

  • Antioxidant

    neutralises free radicals to slow oxidative damage to the formulation or skin

  • Bleaching

    lightens hair or skin tone by chemically reducing pigment

  • Skin conditioning

    improves the appearance, feel, and condition of skin

EU regulatory status

2-Acetylhydroquinone is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.

Frequently asked questions

What is 2-Acetylhydroquinone?

2-Acetylhydroquinone is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Ethanone, 1-(2,5-Dihydroxyphenyl)-

Is 2-Acetylhydroquinone allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

Yes. 2-Acetylhydroquinone is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.

What does 2-Acetylhydroquinone do in cosmetic products?

2-Acetylhydroquinone is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: antioxidant, bleaching, skin conditioning.

What is the CAS number of 2-Acetylhydroquinone?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for 2-Acetylhydroquinone is 490-78-8.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2010