hydroquinone

American  

[hahy-droh-kwi-nohn, -druh-kwin-ohn] / ˌhaɪ droʊ kwɪˈnoʊn, -drəˈkwɪn oʊn /

noun

Chemistry.

1. a white, crystalline compound, C 6 H 6 O 2 , formed by the reduction of quinone: used chiefly in photography and to inhibit autoxidation reactions.

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hydroquinone British  

/ ˌhaɪdrəʊkwɪˈnəʊn /

noun

1. Also called: quinol.  a white crystalline soluble phenol used as a photographic developer; 1,4-dihydroxybenzene. Formula: C 6 H 4 (OH) 2

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Etymology

Origin of hydroquinone

First recorded in 1860–65; hydro- ¹ + quinone

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

hydroquinone

Other sellers admitted using regulated ingredients such as kojic acid, hydroquinone and a powerful antioxidant, glutathione, which may cause rashes and other side-effects.

From BBC ● Mar. 23, 2025

The creams may contain corticosteroids or hydroquinone, which can be harmful if used in high quantities, and in many countries are only obtainable with a doctor's prescription.

From BBC ● Mar. 23, 2025

The FDA says it has received reports of serious side effects from the use of products that contain hydroquinone, including rashes, facial swelling and skin discoloration that can be permanent.

From Washington Post ● Oct. 3, 2022

There is only one drug, Tri-Luma, approved by the FDA that contains hydroquinone, the agency said.

From Washington Post ● Apr. 19, 2022

When technical sodium dichromate is used, the solution should be filtered with suction, before it is added to the hydroquinone, in order to remove any insoluble impurities.

From Organic Syntheses by James Bryant Conant