Phenylethyl resorcinol
CAS Number
85-27-8
EC Number
480-070-0
What is Phenylethyl resorcinol?
Phenylethyl resorcinol (CAS 85-27-8), also known as phenethyl resorcinol, is a synthetic resorcinol derivative used primarily as a skin-brightening and depigmentation active in cosmetic formulations.
Where is Phenylethyl resorcinol used?
- Personal care: formulated into serums and creams for hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone and post-inflammatory discoloration
- Cosmetic brightening: alternative to hydroquinone
- Polymer and plastics: antioxidant and UV stabilizer against oxidative degradation and light-induced discoloration
- Pharmaceutical: chemical intermediate in the synthesis of active compounds requiring a resorcinol backbone
- It inhibits tyrosinase activity, reducing melanin synthesis without the irritation profile of older brightening agents.
Good to know: Often positioned as an alternative to hydroquinone. Cosmetic-grade material is subject to purity and heavy metal limits aligned with personal care industry standards.
Commercial specifications
- Packaging from small R&D quantities to kilogram-scale bulk
Other Names (Synonyms)
phenethyl resorcinol|4-(1-phenylethyl)-1,3-Benzenediol|1,3-Benzenediol, 4-(1-phenylethyl)-|Symwhite 377|G37UFG162O|RefChem:173057|4-(1-phenylethyl)benzene-1,3-diol|4-(alpha-Methylbenzyl)resorcinol
What are the physical properties of Phenylethyl resorcinol?
Melting Point 77.5-78.5 °C
Boiling Point 197-198 °C @ Press: 4 Torr
Density 1.171
Color Light Beige to Pale Brown
Form Solid
Water Solubility 3.85g/L at 20℃
Vapor Pressure 0Pa at 20℃
Log P 2.11 at 22℃
How is Phenylethyl resorcinol classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS05· Corrosive GHS07· Irritant GHS09· Environmental Hazard
Hazard Statements
H302 Harmful if swallowed
H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
H315 Causes skin irritation
H318 Causes serious eye damage
H319 Causes serious eye irritation
H411 Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects
Precautionary Statements
P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
P273 Avoid release to the environment.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Phenylethyl resorcinol?
HS Code 2907290090