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Moumoujus

2-METHOXY-P-CRESOL.

Questionable CAS 93-51-6 / PERFUMING

A phenolic compound that serves multiple roles in skincare formulations as a fragrance component, antioxidant stabilizer, and mild tyrosinase inhibitor. While structurally related to hydroquinone, its primary commercial applications focus on fragrance enhancement and protecting other active ingredients from oxidative degradation. Due to safety concerns regarding chemical leukoderma at higher concentrations, its use is heavily restricted in modern formulations.

Summary

fragrance antioxidant masking

Science

Mechanism of Action

Functions as a competitive inhibitor of tyrosinase enzyme, which regulates melanin synthesis, while simultaneously acting as a free-radical scavenger by donating hydrogen atoms to neutralize reactive oxygen species. In specialized formulations, it can bind to heat receptors in the somatosensory system to produce warming sensations on the skin.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.01–0.5%
Optimal

0.1%

Key findings

  1. 01 At 1.0% concentration in Thermolat® complex, 75% of participants experienced noticeable warming effects with 4% reporting burning sensations
  2. 02 In vitro studies at 0.5% showed dose-dependent tyrosinase inhibition, though higher concentrations risk chemical leukoderma

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Not typically subject to dusting practices due to strict regulatory limitations and safety concerns at higher concentrations

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Demonstrates optimal stability in acidic to neutral pH environments; alkaline conditions above pH 7 trigger rapid oxidation and yellow-brown discoloration. Water solubility is limited to approximately 10g/L while showing high compatibility with alcohols and oil phases.

Synergies

  • Other antioxidants for enhanced stabilization
  • Fragrance components in complex blends

Conflicts

  • Alkaline ingredients (high pH)
  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Nitrosating agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Insufficient data
Max tested
0.1%
Sensitization risk Moderate

CIR Expert Panel deemed data insufficient for p-Cresol compounds due to chemical leukoderma concerns. IFRA restricts usage to 0.01% in eye, baby, and facial products, with complete prohibition in lip and deodorant formulations.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

While offering antioxidant and fragrance benefits, strict concentration limits and insufficient safety data make this ingredient challenging to formulate effectively.

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