Reference summary — not medical advice or a personal risk estimate.
Skin lightening cream
Products marketed to reduce pigmentation. Some historically contained mercury or high-dose hydroquinone.
Also known as: skin bleaching, fairness cream
IARC-classified factors documented in this product
- Contamination · Source: FDA testing records
Lead contamination detected in several imported skin lightening creams over the past two decades.
- Byproduct of ingredients · Source: EPA CPDat
Some formulations use formaldehyde-releasing preservatives.
How to read this page
A factor appearing on this page means it has been documented in this product category — through EPA / FDA testing, IARC monographs, or regulatory recall records. Whether it presents a meaningful personal risk depends on the specific formulation, dose, and how you're exposed. Click any factor to read what science actually says about it, and where.