4-Butylresorcinol
[CAS# 18979-61-8]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Alcohols, phenols, phenolic compounds and derivatives
• Name: 4-Butylresorcinol
• Synonyms: 4-Butylbenzene-1,3-diol
• Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₁₄O₂
• Molecular Weight: 166.22
• CAS Registry Number: 18979-61-8
• EC Number: 606-191-2
• SMILES: CCCCC1=C(C=C(C=C1)O)O

Properties

• Solubility: 601.4 mg/L (25 °C water)
• Density: 1.1±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*
• Index of Refraction: 1.555, Calc.^*
• Melting point: 89.39 °C
• Boiling Point: 300.7±12.0 °C (760 mmHg), Calc.^*, 296.51 °C
• Flash Point: 144.5±14.2 °C, Calc.^*

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07;GHS09 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302-H315-H319-H400
• Safety Statements: P264-P264+P265-P270-P273-P280-P301+P317-P302+P352-P305+P351+P338-P321-P330-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P391-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Acute hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Acute	1	H400
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	1	H410
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335

Discovery and Applications

4-Butylresorcinol, also known as 4-n-butylresorcinol or 4-BR, was first synthesized and characterized in the early 20th century. It belongs to the family of resorcinol derivatives, organic compounds commonly found in a variety of natural sources, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. 4-Butylresorcinol was originally considered a compound with potential medicinal and industrial applications.

One of the main applications of 4-butylresorcinol is in the skin care industry, especially in skin whitening products. It inhibits the activity of tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production. By blocking melanin synthesis, 4-butylresorcinol helps reduce hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone, resulting in a brighter, more even complexion. 4-Butylresorcinol is widely used as an active ingredient in the treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders, including melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and chloasma. Its depigmenting properties make it effective in reducing dark spots and discoloration caused by excessive melanin production. It can be used alone or in combination with other depigmenting agents such as hydroquinone, kojic acid or arbutin. 4-Butylresorcin also has antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage, which are key factors in premature aging. It scavenges free radicals, neutralizes reactive oxygen species, and strengthens the skin's natural defense mechanisms to reduce signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. 4-Butylresorcinol has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria such as Propionibacterium acnes, reduce the inflammation associated with acne lesions, and promote the healing of blemish-prone skin. 4-Butylresorcinol is also used in hair care products, especially those designed to address scalp problems such as dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Its anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties help relieve scalp itching, flaking and irritation, while its sebum-regulating effects help maintain a healthy scalp environment. Shampoos, conditioners, and scalp care products containing 4-butylresorcinol can be used to promote scalp health, reduce dandruff, and improve the overall condition of the hair and scalp.

References

2017. Melasma: an Up-to-Date Comprehensive Review. Dermatology and Therapy, .
DOI: 10.1007/s13555-017-0194-1

2023. Anti-aging Effect of Turkish Medicinal Plants on Skin: Focus on Recent Studies. Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of the World, .
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-43312-2_14