Mequinol
Also known as 4-Methoxyphenol (p-Hydroxyanisole). Commonly used as an antioxidant and polymerization inhibitor in certain technical and nail system applications.
Mequinol is the common name for 4-Methoxyphenol, also called p-Hydroxyanisole. It is a phenolic compound used in industry as an antioxidant and a polymerization inhibitor, helping reduce unwanted oxidation and instability in sensitive systems.
In personal care, its cosmetic use is highly restricted because it has depigmenting potential on skin. For that reason, it is associated with professional artificial nail system use only, under strict concentration limits in some jurisdictions.
If you are sourcing mequinol for cosmetic-related manufacturing, treat it as a restricted material, verify local regulatory status, and follow appropriate handling and labeling practices.
FEATURES
- Antioxidant support – helps reduce oxidative degradation in compatible systems.
- Polymerization inhibitor – used to help control premature polymerization in reactive monomers.
- High attention material – restricted for cosmetic skin use due to depigmentation potential.
- Technical applications – commonly positioned for industrial and nail system use rather than skincare.
BEST FOR
- Professional artificial nail systems (where permitted)
- Polymer stabilization concepts
- Oxidation-sensitive technical blends
- R&D and lab evaluation work
FORMULATION GUIDELINES
| INCI | 4-Methoxyphenol |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Mequinol, p-Hydroxyanisole, Hydroquinone Monomethyl Ether (MEHQ) |
| CAS | 150-76-5 |
| Type | Phenolic antioxidant / polymerization inhibitor |
| Solubility | Slightly soluble in water. More soluble in alcohols and many organic solvents. |
| Use Rate | Regulatory-limited for cosmetics in many regions. Where allowed for professional artificial nail systems, a commonly referenced limit is up to 0.02% (200 ppm) after mixing. Always verify current rules for your target market and format. |
| Best Phase | Phase depends on the carrier system. Typically dissolved into a compatible solvent or monomer phase before final mixing. |
| pH Compatibility | Not typically used as a pH-driven active. Focus on compatibility with the base and stability goals. |
| Temperature Tolerance | Avoid unnecessary high-heat exposure. Add under controlled conditions appropriate to your system. |
| Pro Tip | This is not a casual cosmetic ingredient. Treat it as a restricted material with clear internal SOPs for handling, weighing, and labeling. If your project is nail related, align usage with professional-only positioning and the relevant concentration cap for your jurisdiction. |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline solid (grade dependent) |
| Stability Notes | Phenolic materials can oxidize and discolor with air and light. Keep containers tightly closed and minimize repeated exposure. |
| Storage | Store tightly sealed in a cool, dry place, away from light and heat. |
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