Phenylethyl Resorcinol (CAS 85-27-8), chemically defined as 4-(1-phenylethyl)benzene-1,3-diol, is a synthetic phenolic compound utilized as a high-performance tyrosinase inhibitor in the production of cosmetic brightening formulations. This crystalline raw material, also technically identified as 4-(1-phenylethyl)resorcinol or 4-(alpha-methylbenzyl)resorcinol, serves as a functional ingredient in the industrial compounding of skin care emulsions, specifically incorporated into the oil phase to ensure stability and efficacy in inhibiting melanin synthesis. We provide bulk supply of this cosmetic grade ingredient with competitive factory pricing to meet commercial manufacturing schedules. Our supply chain adheres to strict purity standards, making MSDS, TDS, COA available alongside customized specifications to support diverse formulation requirements.
Phenylethyl Resorcinol CAS 85-27-8
- CAS: 85-27-8
- Synonyms: 4-(1-phenylethyl)benzene-1,3-diol, 4-(1-phenylethyl)resorcinol, 4-(alpha-methylbenzyl)resorcinol, 1,3-Benzenediol 4-(1-phenylethyl)-
- Einecs: 480-070-0
- Molecular Formula: C14H14O2
- Grade: Cosmetic Grade / Skin-Whitening Grade
- Package: 1 kg foil bag / 5 kg aluminum tin / 25 kg drum
Product Description
Phenylethyl Resorcinol (also known as SymWhite® 377 equivalent) is a high-efficiency skin-lightening and anti-oxidant active widely used in premium whitening formulas. It shows strong inhibitory activity on tyrosinase and offers excellent stability compared with traditional whitening agents.
Our factory supplies high-purity Phenylethyl Resorcinol with stable color, low impurities, and verified performance in emulsion, gel, serum, lotion, and transparent essence systems.
Physicochemical Properties
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Purity (HPLC) | ≥ 99% |
| Melting Point | 78 – 82°C |
| Solubility | Soluble in DMSO, ethanol, propylene glycol; slightly soluble in oils |
| Odor | Slight characteristic odor |
| Stability | Excellent stability under normal cosmetic processing temperature |
| Heavy Metals | ≤ 10 ppm |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 0.5% |
Applications
Phenylethyl Resorcinol is mainly used in high-end whitening and brightening formulations. Typical applications include:
- Whitening & brightening face creams
- Anti-pigmentation serums
- Spot-removal essences
- Sunscreen enhancement formulas
- Skin-tone evening products
- Premium dermocosmetic whitening lines
Recommended dosage: 0.1–0.5% depending on formulation requirements.
Storage Conditions
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from light.
- Keep container tightly sealed after opening.
- Recommended storage temperature: 2–10°C.
- Avoid long-term exposure to humidity to prevent powder discoloration.
Safety Precautions
- Avoid direct skin or eye contact with raw powder.
- Use protective gloves and masks during handling.
- Suitable for professional cosmetic manufacturing only—not for retail use.
- Follow your region’s cosmetic compliance requirements during formulation.
FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
-
Q:
What is Phenylethyl Resorcinol?
A: Phenylethyl Resorcinol, CAS 85-27-8, is a resorcinol derivative used in cosmetic formulations as a skin-brightening active. It is commonly known as a SymWhite 377 equivalent. -
Q:
How does it work in skin-brightening products?
A: It inhibits tyrosinase activity, helping reduce melanin formation and supporting a more even skin tone. It is typically used in brightening serums, creams, lotions and spot-care products. -
Q:
Is Phenylethyl Resorcinol water-soluble?
A: It has limited water solubility and is usually incorporated into the oil phase of an emulsion or pre-dissolved in a suitable cosmetic solvent such as ethanol, propylene glycol or another compatible vehicle. -
Q:
What specifications should be checked before ordering?
A: Confirm appearance, HPLC assay, melting range, loss on drying, heavy metals and related impurities before ordering. Also verify that the cosmetic grade meets the finished-product limit for your target market. -
Q:
How should Phenylethyl Resorcinol be stored and handled?
A: Store in tightly closed, light-protected containers in a cool, dry place, away from strong oxidizers. Use powder-handling controls and suitable PPE, and follow the supplier's safety instructions for spill, disposal and first-aid procedures.
Ordering & Documentation
Key information for document requests, quotations, and supply planning.
Documents
COA, TDS, SDS/MSDS and packing details are available on request.
Quotation
Send the CAS number, grade, quantity, packing preference and destination.
Sample & Supply
Support is available for samples, trial orders, bulk and repeat supply.
Storage & Shipping
Product-specific conditions are confirmed before order.


