Hexylresorcinol is a type of organic compound composed of a benzene ring with two hydroxyl groups. It is known to have properties that act as an antiseptic, an anthelmintic, and a local anesthetic. It is often used in topical treatments for minor skin infections and in oral solutions or lozenges for soothing pain and providing first aid antiseptic. In the United States, it is approved to be used as an active ingredient in OTC drug products and its established name is Hexylresorcinol.
Hexylresorcinol is an organic compound with local anaesthetic, antiseptic, and anthelmintic properties.
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| Trade names | Crystoids |
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| ECHA InfoCard | 100.004.780 |
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| Formula | C12H18O2 |
| Molar mass | 194.274 g·mol−1 |
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| Melting point | 68 to 69 °C (154 to 156 °F) |
| Boiling point | 333 to 335 °C (631 to 635 °F) |
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It is available for use topically on small skin infections, or as an ingredient in throat lozenges. It is marketed as S.T.37 by Numark Laboratories, Inc. (in a 0.1% solution) for oral pain relief and as an antiseptic. Sytheon Ltd., USA markets hexylresorcinol (trade named Synovea HR). Johnson & Johnson uses hexylresorcinol in its Neutrogena, Aveno, and RoC skincare products as an anti-aging cream. Hexylresorcinol has been used commercially by many cosmetic and personal care companies, such as Mary Kay, Clarins, Unilever, Murad, Facetheory, Arbonne, and many small and large companies. As an anthelmintic, hexylresorcinol was sold under the brand Crystoids.[citation needed]
A study published in Chemical Research in Toxicology shows that 4-hexylresorcinol used as a food additive (E-586) exhibits some estrogenic activity, i.e. resembles action of the female sex hormone estrogen. However, recent study published in Applied Sciences shows that 4-hexylresorcinol did not change the expression of estrogen receptor-α, -β, or p-ERK1/2 in MCF-7 cells. In an ovariectomized animal model, the 4HR group showed similar levels of ERα, ERβ, and prolactin expression in the pituitary gland compared to the solvent only group, while the estradiol group showed higher levels. Serum prolactin levels were similar between the 4HR and solvent only groups.[citation needed]
In one study, 4-hexylresorcinol increased the shelf life of shrimp by reducing melanosis (black spots).
In mice with cancer, 4-hexylresorcinol inhibited NF-κB and extended their survival rate.
