Overview
4-Butylresorcinol (CAS 18979-61-8 ), commercially recognized as Rucinol, is a synthetic depigmentation active used in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. It inhibits tyrosinase and peroxidase enzymes involved in melanin synthesis.
This makes it a targeted ingredient for skin-brightening and hyperpigmentation correction products. In premium skincare, it is formulated into serums, creams, and spot treatments targeting melasma and age spots.
It is often used at concentrations between 0.1% and 1% for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Pharmaceutical topical preparations use it as an active ingredient in prescription and OTC depigmenting products.
Regulatory-grade purity is required for these applications to ensure safety and efficacy. Its antioxidant activity also supports use as a stabilizer in formulations where oxidative degradation is a concern.
Some specialty formulations incorporate it for its mild preservative-boosting effect alongside primary systems. 4-Butylresorcinol is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder for industrial use.
It is available in cosmetic-grade and pharmaceutical-grade specifications. High-purity grades, typically ≥98% or ≥99% by HPLC, are standard for active cosmetic ingredient supply chains.
Packaging ranges from small quantities for R&D sampling to kilogram-scale lots for commercial batches. This ensures flexibility for both laboratory development and large-scale manufacturing needs.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 49-50 °C |
| Boiling Point | 155-175 °C @ Press: 7 Torr |
| Density | 1.092±0.06 g/cm3(Predicted) |
| Color | white to pale yellow powder |
| Odor | Characteristic |
| Form | Powder |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.041Pa at 25℃ |
| Log P | 2.8 at 24℃ and pH7 |
Safety & Handling
Warning GHS07 GHS09 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation H400 Very toxic to aquatic life Precautionary Statements P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P391 Collect spillage. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 2907290090 |
| Storage Class | 13 - Non Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 2 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 18979-61-8
- EC Number
- 606-191-2
- Mol. Weight
- 166.22
- HS Code
- 2907290090
- Category
- Organic Acids