The Basics On Hexylresorcinol

What is Hexylresorcinol?

Substituted dihydroxybenzene traditionally found in mouthwashes and throat lozenges.

What are other names for Hexylresorcinol?

1,3-BENZENEDIOL, 4-HEXYL-, 1,3-DIHYDROXY-4-HEXYLBENZENE, 1,3BENZENEDIOL, 4HEXYL, 4-HEXYL- 1,3-BENZENEDIOL, 4-HEXYLRESORCINE, 4-HEXYLRESORCINOL, and HEXYLRESORCINOL

What is Hexylresorcinol used for?

In skincare, hexylresorcinol is known to function as a skin-brightening agent. It also possesses antioxidant, as well as astringent properties, that can contribute towards a more even tone complexion. By providing antioxidant protection, hexylresorcinol can help neutralize free radicals present in the environment.

How Hexylresorcinol is classified

Antioxidants

Recommendations for using Hexylresorcinol during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Limited data suggests no known risk

 

Hexylresorcinol During Pregnancy

What we know about using Hexylresorcinol while pregnant or breastfeeding

Limited information available.

The effect of chlorphenesin (suspension in 1% methylcellulose) on pregnancy and in utero development of the rat was evaluated using 4 groups of 25 sexually mature, Specific Pathogen Free female rats of the Crl: CD®BR VAF/Plus strain (8 to 10 weeks old).36 Three groups received oral doses (gavage; dose volume = 10 ml/kg body weight) of 10, 50, and 100 mg/kg, respectively, once daily on days 6 to 15 post-coitum. The control group was dosed with the vehicle (1% methylcellulose) according to the same procedure. The animals were killed on day 20 and necropsy was carried out to identify any congenital abnormalities or macroscopic pathological changes in maternal organs. Tissues were preserved for microscopic examination. There was no evidence of maternal toxicity at either of the 3 administered doses, and neither maternal body weight gain nor food intake was affected by treatment. Increased fur loss and transient post-dosing salivation were observed in the highest dose (100 mg/kg/day) group. Based on necropsy results, it was considered unlikely that fur loss was test substance-related. At all doses administered, chlorphenesin had no adverse effect on embryo-fetal survival, growth, or development in utero. The no observed effect level for selective toxicity to the developing fetus was considered to be 100 mg/kg/day.

General safety info about Hexylresorcinol from CIR

Chlorphenesin functions as a preservative, and is used at concentrations up to 0.32% in rinse-off products and up to 0.3 % in leave-on products. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel noted that chlorphenesin was well-absorbed when applied to the skin of rats; however, their concern was minimized because of the negative toxicity data included in this safety assessment. The Panel concluded that chlorphenesin is safe in the present practices of use and concentration.

Use this, not that!

Products where you might find Hexylresorcinol

PCA Skin C&E Advanced with Hexylresorcinol and Silymarin (1 fl. oz.); SUNDAY RILEY U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil; Dermalogica AGE Bright Spot Fader; SUNDAY RILEY Space Race Fight Acne, Oil & Pores Kit

 

 

 

List of References

General sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/

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Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.

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