INCI page

HEXYLRESORCINOL

Last update on Oct 14, 2025

Hexylresorcinol is a gentle yet powerful ingredient best known for its skin-brightening and anti-aging properties. Loaded with antioxidants, it protects the skin against environmental damage and free radicals. It inhibits tyrosinase - the enzyme responsible for melanin production - to result in a brighter, even-looking skin tone. Furthermore, Hexylresorcinol is a safer and more effective alternative to popular skin brightening ingredients like Hydroquinone. It works synergistically with niacinamide and vitamin C to result in an overall radiant skin. Additionally, Hexylresorcinol has a low allergenic potential and is safe for topical application. It is also biodegradable and is considered non-toxic for the environment and aquatic life.

CAS Number: 136-77-6Chem/IUPAC Name: 4-Hexyl-1,3-benzenediolEINECS/ELINCS No: 205-257-4COSING REF No: 56442

Products with HEXYLRESORCINOL

See all products
With samples available

What is HEXYLRESORCINOL used for?

  • Skin brightening - Hexylresorcinol reduces the production of melanin and evens out the skin tone. It helps cure hyperpigmentation and fades dark spots to result in a brighter, uniform complexion.
  • Anti-aging - Hexylresorcinol is rich in antioxidants that fight free radicals responsible for premature aging of the skin. It helps minimize fine lines and wrinkles with regular use. Additionally, by stimulating collagen synthesis, it firms up the skin to make it smoother and more youthful.
  • Soothing - It calms inflammation and redness, gently healing the skin and scalp. This makes it valuable in post-procedure or sensitive-skin formulas.
  • Antimicrobial - Hexylresorcinol is popular in anti-dandruff shampoos due to its ability to fight off dandruff and result in a clean, balanced scalp. It also helps prevent acne-causing bacteria and mild skin infections.

Origin

Hexylresorcinol is synthetically made using the alkylation, where a six-carbon (hexyl) chain is attached to resorcinol (an organic phenolic compound). The resulting ingredient appears as a pale yellow or peach-colored powder that has a faint, fatty odor. It is then neutralized to remove acid and inorganic salts, making it suitable for use in cosmetics. Additionally, Hexylresorcinol is purified using the distillation procedure. The chemical formula of Hexylresorcinol is C12H18O2.

What does HEXYLRESORCINOL do in a formulation?

ANTIMICROBIAL|
SOOTHING|
ANTIOXIDANT|
ANTIDANDRUFF

Safety Profile

Hexylresorcinol is a globally approved ingredient safe for use at concentrations of 0.4% to 1%. It is non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-comedogenic at the appropriate levels. Additionally, Hexylresorcinol is stable and does not cause sun sensitivity. However, patch tests must be performed prior to full application, especially on sensitive skin. Lastly, Hexylresorcinol is a biodegradable ingredient safe for the environment.

HEXYLRESORCINOL alternatives

HEXYLRESORCINOL technical profile

Property Values

Boiling point

333°C - 335°C

Melting point

66.9°C - 67.9°C

pH

3.5 - 6.5

Solubility

Practically insoluble in water; soluble in oil

Viscosity

Low

Formulations with HEXYLRESORCINOL

No data available

By Application

No data available