In addition to the materials derived from these natural sources, about two thirds of the Western world's supply is produced by methylation of phenol using methanol.

Many other production methods have been examined, including oxidative decarboxylation of salicylic acid, oxygenation of toluene, and hydrolysis of 2-chlorotoluene.

Chlorination and etherification gives members of commercially important herbicides, such as 2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid (MCPA).

When cresols are inhaled, ingested, or applied to the skin at very high levels, they can be harmful.

Breathing high levels of cresols for a short time results in irritation of the nose and throat.