Resorcinol is a synthetic organic compound used primarily as a topical keratolytic agent to treat various skin conditions, including acne, warts, corns, and calluses. It works by softening and sheddin...
Resorcinol is a synthetic organic compound used primarily as a topical keratolytic agent to treat various skin conditions, including acne, warts, corns, and calluses. It works by softening and shedding the outer layer of skin. While effective, it can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and photosensitivity. Rare cases of thyroid dysfunction and methemoglobinemia have been reported with significant systemic absorption, especially with extensive use. Careful adherence to recommended concentrations and monitoring for adverse effects are crucial for safe and effective use.
Key Information
Outside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
Topical concentrations typically range from 0.5% to 2% for acne treatment and up to 10% in higher strength preparations for warts and calluses. Dosage depends heavily on the specific product and condition being treated.
Source Type
synthetic
Production Process
Resorcinol is typically synthesized industrially by the sulfonation of benzene with oleum, followed by alkali fusion. Other methods involve diazotization of m-aminophenol.
Use Type
Outside BodyPotential Benefits
Acne treatment reduces or eliminates acne lesions by addressing underlying causes like excess sebum, bacterial infection, inflammation, and clogged follicles. Treatment options include topical applications, oral medications, and lifestyle modifications.
Salicylic acid breaks down wart tissue by dissolving keratin. This leads to gradual wart removal.
Resorcinol softens and removes thickened skin from warts, corns, and calluses by dissolving the connections between dead skin cells. This process helps to reduce the size and discomfort of these conditions.
Resorcinol treats seborrheic dermatitis by removing scales and controlling infection due to its keratolytic and antiseptic properties. This reduces inflammation, itching, and visible scaling.
Possible Side Effects
Thyroid dysfunction involves impaired thyroid hormone production leading to conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Symptoms vary and can include fatigue, weight changes, and heart rate irregularities; long-term consequences may include cardiovascular or neurological problems.
Skin irritation involves symptoms like redness, itching, and rashes due to contact with irritants, allergens, or environmental factors. Severity varies based on the cause, individual sensitivity, and affected area; persistent cases may lead to secondary infections.
Allergic reactions are hypersensitivity responses to allergens, ranging from mild skin irritation to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Symptoms vary widely and are caused by an immune response.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis is a delayed hypersensitivity reaction caused by skin contact with an allergen, resulting in inflammation, redness, itching, and other skin irritations. The reaction typically appears 12-72 hours post-exposure and is diagnosed via history, physical exam, and patch testing.
Photosensitivity is an increased sensitivity to UV radiation, leading to sunburn, rash, or blistering. Reactions can be phototoxic or photoallergic, with symptoms ranging from mild redness to severe blistering and potentially increasing skin cancer risk with prolonged exposure.
Rarely, resorcinol absorption can cause thyroid dysfunction, presenting as either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Monitoring thyroid function is advised with prolonged use, especially in individuals with pre-existing thyroid conditions.
Scientific Evidence
Scientific literature on dermatology, pharmacology textbooks, product monographs for topical medications containing resorcinol, case reports of adverse reactions (particularly thyroid dysfunction and methemoglobinemia).
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