Rucinol

What is rucinol?

Rucinol, also known as 4-butylresorcinol, is a skin lightening agent that works by inhibiting the activity of key enzymes involved in the production of melanin (R, R).

Is rucinol stable?

Resorcinol derivatives like rucinol may change in colour and character when used in personal care products, possibly due to oxidation. According to a patent granted to Unilever in 2005, the addition of micronised metal oxides can improve its colour and storage stability (R). Encapsulating rucinol within liposomes may also increase its stability (R).

Does rucinol get absorbed?

Experiments on human and pig skin have shown that 16 hours after 0.3% rucinol was applied, most of the applied dose (71% to 82%) remained on the surface of the skin, with 11% to 16% absorbed by the epidermis and the dermis or penetrating through the skin (R). Rucinol can also be loaded on dissolving microneedle patches, which deliver it into the skin by piercing the skin barrier (R).