Hexylresorcinol

Hexylresorcinol is a synthetic ingredient that offers several benefits for skin. It’s antioxidant benefits include helping to prevent collagen breakdown, preserving skin’s firmness. Of note, it’s capable of scavenging free radicals that damage skin’s protein and lipid (fat) components, helping to maintain a healthy appearance. It also plays a role in interrupting specific pathways in skin that lead to hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, thus improving the uniformity of skin’s surface color. Hexylresorcinol is considered a safe and effective alternative to longstanding dark spot ingredient hydroquinone. Clinical studies have shown excellent synergy of this ingredient paired with the B vitamin niacinamide, various forms of vitamin C and various retinoids. It’s also been shown to be more effective at fading discolorations than kojic acid or licorice extract. Another note on safety: hexylresorcinol has GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status and is also used as a anti-browning agent in foods. Recommended usage levels of hexylresorcinol in skin care range from 0.4–1% when used on its own and 2–4% when this ingredient is part of a blend such as those that contain fatty acids. This ensures the level of hexylresorcinol itself remains in the efficacious range. Note that this ingredient requires an acidic pH (below 6) for best results. The antimicrobial properties of hexylresorcinol give it mild preservative ability when used in levels of 0.1% or greater.

Related ingredients: Phenylethyl Resorcinol