85-27-8

Synonyms: Phenylethyl Resorcinol, 4-(1-Phenylethyl)resorcinol, 4-(1-Phenylethyl)-1,3-benzenediol, SymWhite 377, 85-27-8

Phenylethyl Resorcinol is a synthetic resorcinol derivative that has become a benchmark ingredient in the personal care industry for skin brightening and evening skin tone. Unlike many botanical extracts that contain a mixture of actives, this compound is a single, well-defined molecule, which allows formulators to achieve consistent efficacy and predictable stability in finished products. Its development stems from research into resorcinol-based compounds that can inhibit tyrosinase, the key enzyme in melanin synthesis, without the drawbacks associated with earlier generations of whitening agents.

From a chemical standpoint, Phenylethyl Resorcinol features a resorcinol core substituted with a 1-phenylethyl group at the 4-position. This structure is lipophilic enough to penetrate the stratum corneum, yet retains sufficient polarity to remain compatible with common cosmetic emollients and solvents. It is typically supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder with an assay of ≥99% (HPLC), and it exhibits good thermal stability under normal storage conditions. Its mechanism of action involves competitive inhibition of tyrosinase, as well as interference with the transfer of melanosomes to keratinocytes, making it effective at low use levels.

In terms of applications, Phenylethyl Resorcinol is primarily used in leave-on skin care products such as serums, creams, and lotions, where it addresses hyperpigmentation, age spots, and uneven skin tone. It is also incorporated into products targeting post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma. Because it is effective at concentrations as low as 0.1–0.5%, it is cost-efficient for brands aiming to deliver visible brightening benefits without compromising on sensory properties. The ingredient is compatible with a wide range of other actives, including vitamin C derivatives, niacinamide, and retinoids, although formulation pH should be kept below 7 to ensure stability.

Function

• Tyrosinase inhibition: Competitively inhibits tyrosinase, reducing melanin production.
• Melanin transfer inhibition: Interferes with melanosome transfer to keratinocytes, further limiting pigmentation.
• Antioxidant activity: Scavenges free radicals to protect skin from oxidative stress.
• Skin brightening: Visibly reduces dark spots and evens skin tone.
• Anti-inflammatory support: Helps calm irritation that can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Source & Standardization

• Source: Synthetic
• Standardization: ≥99.0% (HPLC)
• Forms: White to off-white crystalline powder
• Applications: Skin brightening serums, creams, lotions, and other leave-on personal care products

Specifications

Documentation & Supply

• Monthly capacity: 500 kg
• Lead time: 3-5 business days (stock items)
• Documentation: COA, MSDS, TDS available upon request
• Packaging: 25 kg fiber drum with double PE liner; custom packaging available for small quantities

Request For Quote

• LyvBio Co., Ltd. — Email: info@lyvbio.com