Resorcinol
Resorcinol is a topical keratolytic agent used to treat various skin conditions by softening and removing the outer layer of skin. It is commonly prescribed for acne, warts, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and calluses. The medication works by breaking down skin proteins and has additional antiseptic properties.
Resorcinol is a topical skin medication used to treat acne, warts, and other skin conditions by softening and removing damaged outer skin layers.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D10AD02
- RxNorm
- 9054
- Generic
- Resorcinol
- Class
- atc-d10
- Brands
- Acnomel, R A Acne, Rezamid, Resinol, Vagisil Original Formula
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 0
- Onset (min)
- 0
- Duration (h)
- 0
- Routes
- topical, vaginal
- Forms
- cream, lotion, ointment, gel, vaginal cream
- Regions
- United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, European Union
- Monitoring
- skin irritation, allergic reactions
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
10 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
use only if clearly needed; topical application limited to small areas
regular prenatal checkups
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteravoid if possible
limit use to small affected areas; avoid large surface area application
routine prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid extensive use
use minimal amounts on limited skin areas; avoid near delivery
monitor fetal development
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children under 12use with extreme caution
not recommended for young children; avoid use in infants and toddlers
monitor for signs of toxicity
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlyno specific adjustment needed
use as directed; monitor for skin irritation
regular skin assessment
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed for topical use
minimal systemic absorption expected; use as directed
standard monitoring
renal_impairment
severeuse cautiously
avoid extensive application; use on limited skin areas
monitor renal function
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
topical use generally safe
standard monitoring
hepatic_impairment
severeuse with caution
limit application area and duration
monitor liver function
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid on breast area
avoid applying to chest or breast area; wash hands thoroughly before breastfeeding
monitor infant for adverse effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information
Drug class
Drug class information
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses
Common formulations
Available dosage forms
Topical treatment of acne vulgaris, warts, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, corns, and calluses. Often used in combination with other acne medications like sulfur.
As a keratolytic agent, resorcinol works by breaking down keratin in the outer skin layer (stratum corneum), causing the skin to soften and shed. It also possesses mild antiseptic properties that help reduce bacterial colonization on the skin.
For topical use only. Avoid application to large body areas, broken or inflamed skin, and mucous membranes. Not recommended during pregnancy. May cause skin irritation, redness, or staining of skin/hair. Should not be used by patients with kidney impairment. Avoid sun exposure during treatment.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy