Resorcinol comes from the distillation of Brazilwood extract. It is readily soluble in water, ethanol and ether. It is used externally as a disinfectant and for the treatment of skin diseases like psoriasis and eczema.

II. How does Resorcinol works on acne?

Resorcinol works just like any hydroxy acid. They encourage the peeling of skin and exposes a new skin cell layer. The peeling effect prevents pore clogging thus avoiding the formation of comedo. It is also good for breaking down whiteheads and blackheads. Resorcinol is also combined with sulfur or salicylic in some products at specific concentration.

III. Forms, Dosage and Administration

• Topical lotion or cream.

IV. Precautions

Do not use the following products in the same area where Resorcinol is applied.

• Abrasive soaps
• Products which contain high amounts of alcohol
• Products containing other peeling agents ( benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur or tretinoin)
  
  

V. Side Effects

• Most common side effect with this product is redness of the skin
• Overdose of resorcinol may cause poisoning, the symptoms are may include diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, or vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, headache (severe or continuing), nervousness or restlessness, slow heartbeat, shortness of breath, or troubled breathing, sweating, unusual tiredness or weakness

Brand Names

Rezamid, Eskamel

References

• http://chemicalland21.com/lifescience/phar/RESORCINOL.htm
• http://www.drugs.com/cons/rezamid-acne-treatment-topical.html ( Facts & Comparisons data last updated 14 November 2007)
• http://www.intekom.com/pharm/group/eskamel.html ESKAMEL
• Guidelines of care for acne vulgaris management.
  Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 56, Issue 4, Pages 651-663
  J. Strauss, D. Krowchuk, J. Leyden, A. Lucky, A. Shalita, E. Siegfried, D. Thiboutot, A. Van Voorhees, K. Beutner, C. Sieck
• In vitro study of antibacterial action of various chemicals on Corynebacterium acnes
  Chester F. Koda, Thomas C. Grubb, Joseph F. Alexander
  Vick Chemical Co., Division of Richardson-Merrell, Inc., Mount Vernon, N. Y.

 

Page last modified: January 07, 2008