Overview
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.
It functions by inhibiting tyrosinase activity, reducing melanin synthesis without the irritation profile associated with older brightening agents. In personal care, it is formulated into serums and creams.
These products target hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and post-inflammatory discoloration, often positioned as an alternative to hydroquinone. Polymer and plastics manufacturers incorporate it as an antioxidant.
It acts as a UV stabilizer, protecting materials from oxidative degradation and light-induced discoloration during processing and end-use. In pharmaceutical contexts, it serves as a chemical intermediate.
It is used in the synthesis of active compounds where a resorcinol backbone is required. Its antioxidant activity also supports preservation functions in formulations where oxidative stability is a concern.
Phenylethyl resorcinol is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder. It is available in cosmetic-grade and technical-grade specifications for various industrial applications.
Cosmetic-grade material is subject to purity and heavy metal limits aligned with personal care industry standards. Packaging typically ranges from small quantities for R&D to kilogram-scale bulk.
Contact us for supply of Phenylethyl resorcinol
Physical Properties
| 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℃ |
Safety & Handling
Danger GHS05 GHS07 GHS09 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. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P363 Wash contaminated clothing before reuse. P391 Collect spillage. P405 Store locked up. 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. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. 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. P301+P330+P331 Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. P302+P361+P354 IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. P305+P354+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 |
Other Names
Related Products
Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 85-27-8
- EC Number
- 480-070-0
- Mol. Weight
- 214.26
- HS Code
- 2907290090
- Category
- Pharmaceutical Intermediates