Market Challenges And Opportunities

Market Dynamics

Hydroquinone finds application as an antioxidant, intermediate, polymerization inhibitor, and photosensitive chemical in the industries such as polymers, cosmetics, paints and adhesives, and rubber. Hydroquinone is used for continuous production of cross-linked particulate gel-type polymers and superabsorbent polymers. Therefore, increasing demand for hydroquinone from the polymers industry is expected to boost growth of the global hydroquinone market over the forecast period.

Moreover, hydroquinone is the common name for the ingredient 1,4-dihydroxybenzene and may be used safely in a variety of cosmetics such as skin lighteners, facial and skin cleansers, facial moisturizers, hair conditioners, and finger nail coating products. This in turn is expected to drive demand for hydroquinone from the cosmetics industry.

However, hydroquinone is also associated with cancer and organ-system toxicity. Moreover, hydroquinone is not recommended for dry and sensitive skin type as the phenol further leads to dryness or irritation. Moreover, the preferences for use of natural ingredients in cosmetics is increasing significantly. These factors are expected to hinder the market growth over the forecast period.