Resorcinol

Resorcinol, or 1,3 dihydroxybenzene, is a common chemical intermediate that finds utility in applications ranging from wood glue resins, leather dyes, pharmacology, and permanent hair-coloring products. It is also found in some, but not all, foam-in-place insulation formulations where it functions as a foam stabilizer, a formaldehyde absorbent, and a cross-linking agent that improves the hydrolysis resistance of foams.

Resorcinol is known for its propensity to change colors. Generally found as a white powder or crystalline substance, 1, 3 dihydroxybenzene changes to a deep, pink color upon exposure to light and air or when in contact with iron. This explains why some formulations that contain resorcinol typically have a dark reddish-brown hue.

Thanks to its spasmolytic action, Resorcinol is used to treat conditions related to spasms such as cholecystitis (gallstones), abdominal pains, and bronchospasms. In the case of topical application, it has an antiseptic action without adverse effects on the endocrine system (low dermal absorption <1%) and is useful in applications against acne, microbial-origin dermatitis, and other skin infections. It also acts as a preservative booster improving the shelf-life and usage period of skincare preparation.