Ingredient Directory
Low-MediumVegan Evaluator Flag

Hexylresorcinol

4-Hexylresorcinol

Safety Notes

Tyrosinase inhibitor; antiseptic; used in brightening cosmetics; also used as food preservative and wound care; EU Annex V consideration for antimicrobial use, verify current classification; sensitization potential at higher concentrations

Function & Common Use

Function

Active (skin brightening / antimicrobial)

Category

Active Ingredient

Common In

Brightening products anti-aging serums

Origin

Synthetic

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No formal limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

1% max (Annex III consideration); lower in cosmetics typical 0.1-0.5%

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked; EU limit reference: 1% max (Annex III consideration); lower in cosmetics typical 0.1-0.5%

Korea (MFDS)

No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category

Format restriction: Leave-on

Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hexylresorcinol safe to use in skincare?

Hexylresorcinol has a High concern rating. Tyrosinase inhibitor; antiseptic; used in brightening cosmetics; also used as food preservative and wound care; EU Annex V consideration for antimicrobial use, verify current classification; sensitization potential at higher concentrations

Is Hexylresorcinol allowed in India?

Hexylresorcinol is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No formal limit.

What is Hexylresorcinol used for in cosmetics?

Hexylresorcinol functions as: Active (skin brightening / antimicrobial). It is commonly found in: Brightening products anti-aging serums.

TCS Assessment
Low-Medium
Data Confidence
High
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted
Australia (TGA)
Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made
Canada (NHPID)
Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies

Identifiers

CAS136-77-6
EC205-257-4

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