What Is Resinol®?

Resinol® is the brand name of a medication that contains two percent resorcinol and 55 percent petroleum jelly. Available in the form of a cream, this drug is intended to treat a variety of skin conditions, and to temporarily relieve minor pain. Patients who have a medical condition other than the skin condition, and those who are taking other medications should consult a pharmacist or doctor prior to use.

Skin conditions such as sunburns, minor skin irritations, and minor cuts and burns may benefit from the use of Resinol®. It may also be used to treat skin that is chapped, chafed, or otherwise damaged; however, it is not intended for the treatment of severe lacerations or other major wounds. Patients who have come into contact with poison ivy, oak, or sumac may also use the cream to soothe the skin. The drug works by acting on hardened skin cells, and so it may also help treat skin conditions like acne, warts, and callouses, as well as corns, eczema, and psoriasis.

This medicated cream is intended for topical application only, or for direct application to the skin. It should never be swallowed or applied to the nose, eyes, or mouth. Patients should apply Resinol® by rubbing a very small amount of the cream into the affected skin. The smallest amount necessary should be used, especially on broken skin, because more of the cream will be absorbed into the body through the wound. Patients should wash their hands thoroughly after applying the cream.

Resinol® is generally intended to be used three to four times daily. A doctor should provide dosage instructions for children under the age of two. If the symptoms persist longer than a week, patients should discontinue use and consult a doctor. They should also speak with their doctors if their symptoms improve, but then worsen with additional use of the cream.

Certain precautions should be followed while using Resinol®. Patients should avoid using abrasive skin cleansers or any other harsh skin care products to the affected skin. It is possible for too much of the medication to be absorbed into the body, particularly if the patient uses the cream over a large area of skin. Signs of a possible overdose, which requires immediate medical attention, may include shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting. An overdose may also cause a severe headache, slowed heartbeat, and weakness.

Before treating any skin conditions with Resinol®, patients should discuss other medical conditions and medications with their doctors or pharmacists. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should discuss possible risks with their doctors. This medicated cream may interact with other skin treatments, including sulfur, tretinoin, and salicylic acid, as well as benzoyl peroxide.