hi,
lots of beauty creams for dark skin contain hydroquinone 2%.word is being passed around that this chemical is accumulative and can damage the kidneys.
can anyone verify the authenticity of this claim?is it science or myth?

Nonoso, this belongs on the Skin Care forum, but since it's on this forum I will answer it...Products containing 2% Hydroquinone is legal in the United States, however, it is banned in some countries. Higher concentration of Hydroquinone is harmful, but even 2% may be dangerous if it is used on the skin for a long period of time. So I advise people not to use it for more than 3 to 6 months. Hydroquinone, the monobenzyl and monomethyl esters of hydroquinone has been used for removing spots on skin and discolorations. It can, however cause irreversible skin damage, and may also cause skin cancer. You may want to check with your dermatologist before using it.