Substantial evidence for the rhododendrol-induced generation of hydroxyl radicals that causes melanocyte cytotoxicity and induces chemical leukoderma

•Elaborate hydroxyl radical detection after rhododendrol application to melanocytes.•Remarkable correlation of hydroxyl radical generation with melanocyte cytotoxicity.•Suppressing both hydroxyl radicals and cytotoxicity by enhancing glutathione levels.•Useful strategy to prevent leukoderma induced by phenol derivatives.