Ingredient
Resorcinol
What is Resorcinol?
Resorcinol is an organic compound commonly used in the production of dyes, plastics, and pharmaceuticals. It is a crystalline solid that is derived from benzene and can be synthetically produced through various chemical processes.
In hair care products, resorcinol is used mainly as a dye component, contributing to the color formation in hair dyes. There is concern over its potential health impacts, as some studies link repeated skin exposure to resorcinol with skin irritation and potential endocrine effects, although the evidence is not definitive.
When you see resorcinol on a product label, particularly in hair dyes, it's worth knowing that regulatory bodies have set restrictions on its concentration to minimize potential health risks.
Commonly found in: hair dyes, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, dyes, plastics
What to watch
- Resorcinol has been linked to skin irritation in some studies.
- There is concern about potential endocrine-disrupting effects, though evidence is mixed.
The FDA regulates resorcinol's use in hair dyes, setting limits on concentration to reduce health risks.
Research on resorcinol is mixed, with some studies indicating potential health risks but no definitive conclusions.
Resorcinol is synthetically derived and not animal-derived, typically considered vegan.
Sources: Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Resorcinol
Scout's take
Resorcinol is a synthetic phenol used as a hair dye coupler. The EU SCCS has flagged it as a suspected endocrine disruptor (thyroid interference) and a known skin sensitizer. It is restricted in many jurisdictions and is on California Prop 65's list for reproductive toxicity considerations.
Found in 5 products
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