What is 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol?

4-T-Butylcyclohexanol, also known as SymSitive, is an active ingredient used in skincare for its soothing and anti-irritant properties. It helps reduce skin sensitivity and discomfort, making it ideal for products targeting sensitive or reactive skin.

How does this ingredient work in skincare?

4-T-Butylcyclohexanol works in skincare by modulating the skin's sensory receptors, specifically the TRPV1 (transient receptor potential vanilloid 1) receptors, which are involved in the sensation of pain and irritation. By inhibiting these receptors, it reduces the skin's sensitivity to environmental stressors and irritants, thereby minimizing sensations of discomfort, redness, and itching. This makes it particularly effective for soothing and calming sensitive or reactive skin, enhancing the overall comfort and tolerance of skincare products.

How does this ingredient compare to others?

4-T-Butylcyclohexanol compares favorably to other soothing ingredients like niacinamide, allantoin, and bisabolol in terms of reducing skin sensitivity and irritation. Unlike niacinamide, which also offers anti-inflammatory and barrier-strengthening benefits, 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol primarily targets the sensory receptors responsible for irritation, providing more immediate relief. Allantoin is effective for calming and healing, but it does not specifically modulate sensory receptors like 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol. Bisabolol, derived from chamomile, has strong anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, but 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol offers a more targeted approach to reducing sensory irritation.

Potential benefits of this ingredient for the skin

4-T-Butylcyclohexanol offers several potential benefits for the skin:

• Immediate Soothing Effect: By modulating TRPV1 receptors, it provides rapid relief from irritation, redness, and itching, making it ideal for sensitive or reactive skin.
• Reduced Sensitivity: It helps reduce the skin's overall sensitivity to environmental stressors and irritants, improving tolerance to skincare products and environmental factors.
• Calming and Comforting: It enhances skin comfort, making it suitable for use in products aimed at calming and soothing the skin, particularly after exposure to harsh conditions or treatments.
• Enhanced Skin Tolerance: Regular use can help build the skin's resilience over time, reducing the likelihood of adverse reactions and discomfort from other skincare ingredients.
• Versatility: It can be incorporated into a variety of formulations, including serums, creams, and lotions, to provide targeted soothing benefits without interfering with other active ingredients.

Products we use this ingredient in

Higher Capacity Cleansing Fluid

References

• Sulzberger, M et al. “Effective treatment for sensitive skin: 4-t-butylcyclohexanol and licochalcone A.” Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV vol. 30 Suppl 1 (2016): 9-17. doi:10.1111/jdv.13529
• Schoelermann, A M et al. “Skin compatibility and efficacy of a cosmetic skin care regimen with licochalcone A and 4-t-butylcyclohexanol in patients with rosacea subtype I.” Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV vol. 30 Suppl 1 (2016): 21-7. doi:10.1111/jdv.13531
• Srour, Jerome et al. “Efficacy of a skin care cream with TRPV1 inhibitor 4-t-butylcyclohexanol in the topical therapy of perioral dermatitis.” Journal of cosmetic dermatology vol. 19,6 (2020): 1409-1414. doi:10.1111/jocd.13175