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Health risk assessment: Hydroquinone in skin-lightening products

Please note: As of 1 July 2025, the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science) is the new name for the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR). Research and reports published prior to this date may reference the organisation’s former name.

Summary

The purpose of this report is to summarise generic health risk assessment data for exposure to hydroquinone from the use of skin-lightening products available to consumers both over the counter in physical stores and online. This report will only consider domestic, non-occupational, incidental exposure to hydroquinone.

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