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Moumoujus

2-METHYL-3-P-CRESYL-PROPIONALDEHYDE.

Optional CAS 41496-43-9 / PERFUMING

A fragrant aldehyde compound that serves as a masking and perfuming agent in cosmetic formulations, delivering a distinctive basil-anise or floral-green scent profile. Also known as Canthoxal or Cresson, this ingredient is commonly found in fine fragrances and personal care products at concentrations up to 0.3%.

Summary

masking perfuming

Science

Mechanism of Action

Functions primarily through olfactory enhancement, providing fragrance masking properties to neutralize undesirable base odors in formulations. At the molecular level, this aldehyde can form reversible Schiff-base interactions with skin proteins, which accounts for both its aromatic delivery and potential mild sensitization profile.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.1–0.3%
Optimal

0.29%

Key findings

  1. 01 RIFM safety assessment (2022) established 0.29% as 95th percentile concentration in fine fragrances with acceptable sensitization profile
  2. 02 RIFM water solubility study (2007) determined 1.08 g/L solubility limit affecting dermal penetration characteristics

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.05%
Red flag below
0.5%

Regulated fragrance ingredient with established IFRA concentration limits; concentrations above 0.5% would exceed safety guidelines and indicate potential formula padding

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Demonstrates good stability across typical cosmetic pH ranges but susceptible to oxidative degradation when exposed to air and light over extended periods, converting to corresponding carboxylic acid

Synergies

  • Other fragrance aldehydes
  • Essential oils
  • Synthetic fragrance compounds

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong acids and bases
  • Primary amines

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0.3%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Governed by IFRA safety standards with established NESIL of 5900 μg/cm² for related compounds; not recommended for sensitive skin due to aldehyde sensitization potential

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Optional

A well-characterized fragrance ingredient suitable for most skin types except sensitive, with established safety profile when used within IFRA concentration limits.

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