Resorcinol is a very white crystalline solid that becomes pink on exposure to light if not completely pure. Burns although ignition is difficult.It has a role as an erythropoietin inhibitor and a sensitiser.It is often used to make plastics and pharmaceuticals.

Uses

Resorcinol works by breaking down rough, scaly, or hardened skin. Resorcinol also disinfects the skin to help fight infection.
Resorcinol topical (for the skin) is used to treat pain and itching caused by minor cuts and scrapes, burns, insect bites, poison ivy, sunburn, or other skin irritations. Resorcinol topical is also used to treat acne, eczema, psoriasis, seborrhea, corns, calluses, warts, and other skin disorders.

Important Information

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use resorcinol if you are allergic to resorcinol.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially:

allergies to foods or dyes; or if you are allergic to an animal.

It is not known whether resorcinol topical will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether resorcinol topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How to use

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Do not take by mouth. Resorcinol topical is for use only on the skin. Do not use this medicine on open wounds or on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin.

Side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although the risk of serious side effects is low when resorcinol is applied to the skin, side effects can occur if the medicine is absorbed into your bloodstream. Your body may absorb resorcinol through the skin if you use too much or if you apply it over large skin areas. Skin that is cut or irritated may also absorb more medicine.

Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

headache, tired feeling, shortness of breath;

blue-colored skin;

fast or irregular heartbeats;

seizure (convulsions); or

weak or shallow breathing.

Children can absorb larger amounts of this medicine through the skin and may be more likely to have side effects.