Common Name(s): Rhododendrol,rhododendrol,rasagiline-related phenol,tyrosinase inhibitor

CAS Number: N/a

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Provides competitive tyrosinase inhibition from the catechol-related phenol structure for melanogenesis reduction and skin brightening.

Why It's Used: Rhododendrol is selected for potent tyrosinase inhibition — the betuligenol phenol provides ic₅₀ tyrosinase inhibition comparable to arbutin but with concentration-dependent safety concerns that require careful formulation at ≤0.5%.

How It Works: Rhododendrol → tyrosinase competitive inhibition (ic₅₀ ~50 μm) → reduced dopa oxidation → reduced melanin synthesis; at high concentrations: tyrosinase-mediated reactive quinone formation → potential melanocyte toxicity.

Typically Found In: Brightening

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Active ingredient – antioxidant

Secondary Functions: Free radical scavenging,anti-aging

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.05%–0.5%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Plant-derived extract or synthetic.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic

Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; well-tolerated.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.

Works Well With: Vitamin c,vitamin e,ferulic acid,spf,other antioxidants

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Rhododendrol requires strict concentration limits (≤0.5%) — the kanebo blanchir superior leukoderma incident (2013) linked high-dose cosmetic use to irreversible depigmentation in susceptible individuals.

Last Verified: 2026-03-22

Primary Sources: Cosing database,rhododendrol betuligenol tyrosinase brightening safety review