murphyp-Hydroxyanisole
AKA: 4-Methoxyphenol, Mequinol, 150-76-5, 4-Hydroxyanisole, P-Methoxyphenol, Phenol, HYDROQUINONE MONOMETHYL ETHER, MEHQ, Leucobasal
Synthetic
Antioxidant
Not Clean
OriginSynthesized from hydroquinone or anisole precursors through organic chemical reactions in laboratory settings. Produced via methylation or hydroxylation processes to create the stable aromatic compound used in formulations.
Mequinol is a phenol used in various applications. It is used as an inhibitor for acrylic monomers and acrylonitirles, as a stabilizer for chlorinated hydrocarbons and ethyl cellulose, as an ultraviolet inhibitor, as a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of antioxidants, pharmaceuticals, plasticizers, and dyestuffs. It is found as an active ingredient in topical drugs used for skin depigmentation indicated for the treatment of solar lentigines.
Solubility Soluble (NTP, 1992)
Formula
C7H8O2
Mol. Weight
124.14
CAS #
150-76-5
Form
Powder
State
Hydroquinone monomethyl ether appears as pink crystals or white waxy solid. (NTP, 1992)
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
No
Functions
Antioxidant
Fights free radicals — the unstable molecules from UV, pollution, and stress that break down collagen and cause premature aging.
Reducing
Neutralizes Free Radicals
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed4 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
8
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
No
Restricted By
CIR Safety Findings
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
6 studies / 5 irritating / 1 not irritating / reactions minimal to severe (CIR 187 and 677)
Mixed Phototoxicity Results
Both phototoxic and non-phototoxic results in the CIR safety assessment (CIR 187 and 677)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
14 studies / 9 irritating / 1 mixed / 4 not irritating / reactions minimal to moderate (CIR 187 and 677)
Mixed Sensitization Results
5 studies / 2 sensitizing / 3 not sensitizing (CIR 187)
Concentration Guide
0%50%100%
Reg. limit 0.02%
EU regulatory limit: 0.02%. For professional use only Avoid skin contact Read directions for use carefully Source: EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) 1223/2009, Annex III (Restricted Substances), Entry 95.
Regulatory Agencies
🧂Conflict of interest.
Verified Jun 2026 · 🧪 = conflict
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR