Thymol

Product Description

Thymol is a high-purity, nature-identical phenolic compound, renowned for its powerful, broad-spectrum antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. As a key component of thyme oil, it has a long history of safe use in medicinal and oral care applications. Its primary advantage in modern cosmetics is its dual function as both a potent skin-purifying active and a natural preservative booster. In a market where consumers demand clean, green, and effective solutions, Thymol offers a superior choice for creating self-preserving formulas and targeted treatments for blemish-prone and unbalanced skin.

Product Uses

This versatile active ingredient is a cornerstone for a variety of purifying and preservative-boosting formulations:

• Problem Skin: An ideal active for anti-acne serums, spot treatments, and purifying cleansers, where it helps to inhibit the growth of P. acnes.
• Scalp Care: A key component in anti-dandruff shampoos and scalp treatments to control Malassezia yeast.
• Oral Care: Extensively used in toothpastes and mouthwashes for its powerful antiseptic properties.
• Preservative Systems: Used at low levels as a preservative booster to enhance the efficacy of the overall preservation system and allow for a reduction in traditional preservatives.

Formulation Suggestions

For use as an active, the recommended dosage is between 0.1-0.5%. As a preservative booster, a lower concentration of 0.05-0.2% is effective. Due to its limited water solubility, Thymol should be pre-dissolved in a suitable solvent such as ethanol, propanediol, or other glycols before being added to a formulation. It can also be incorporated into the oil phase. It works synergistically with other antimicrobial agents and preservative boosters.

Our advice is for reference only. Please follow the recommendations of your formulator for actual production.

Product Specification

• INCI Name: Thymol
• Synonyms: 2-Isopropyl-5-methylphenol, Thyme Camphor
• CAS No.: 89-83-8
• Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₁₄O
• Appearance: Colorless transparent crystals or white crystalline powder
• Purity: ≥98%
• Solubility: Soluble in ethanol, glycols, and oils. Sparingly soluble in water.
• Stability: Very stable in solid form and in typical formulations. Protect from light.
• Properties: A potent, plant-derived phenol with broad-spectrum antimicrobial (antibacterial, antifungal) and antioxidant properties. It is effective against acne and dandruff-causing microbes. It also functions as a natural fragrance component and a highly effective preservative booster.
• Origin: China