The molecule consists of an isopropyl group affixed to the para (p-) position of phenol.

The compound, a white solid, is produced by the alkylation of phenol with propylene and is relevant to the production of the commodity chemical bisphenol A (BPA).

The preparation of isopropylphenols by alkylation of phenol and various cresols with propylene has been well developed.

Depending on the catalysts and conditions, products can include, aside from 4-isopropylphenol, 2-isopropylphenol, 2,6-diisopropylphenol, and 2,4,6-2-triisopropylphenol.

[2] The compound undergoes catalytic dehydrogenation to give p-isopropenylphenol.