Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle

3,4-METHYLENEDIOXYPHENOL.

Valuable CAS 533-31-3 / HAIR DYEING

A phenolic antioxidant compound, also known as sesamol, that delivers dual-action skin benefits through potent free radical scavenging and melanogenesis inhibition. Research demonstrates superior brightening efficacy compared to arbutin while providing comprehensive photoprotection against UV-induced damage.

Antioxidant Skin-brightening Anti-inflammatory Photoprotective

Science

Functions as a multitarget phenolic antioxidant that scavenges free radicals while simultaneously inhibiting tyrosinase enzyme activity and MITF expression to reduce melanin synthesis. Additionally modulates inflammatory pathways by downregulating TNF-α and IL-1β cytokines through NF-κB pathway inhibition.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.02–1%
Optimal

0.1%

Key findings

  1. 01 In vivo mouse studies at 0.1-1.0% concentration showed significant reduction in UV-induced skin thickness, wrinkling, and inflammation while enhancing SOD and catalase antioxidant enzyme activity
  2. 02 Cellular studies at 0.02% demonstrated superior tyrosinase inhibition and melanin reduction in B16F10 melanoma cells, outperforming arbutin in multiple brightening parameters

Transparency

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.01%
Red flag below
0.005%

Given the demonstrated efficacy at 0.02% and safety profile up to 1%, concentrations below 0.01% would likely provide minimal therapeutic benefit for antioxidant or brightening applications.


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4 – 6.5
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits photosensitivity and oxidative instability, particularly prone to reddening upon light and air exposure. Alkaline conditions above pH 7.0 cause rapid degradation due to phenol ionization around pKa 10.

Synergies

  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin E
  • Other phenolic antioxidants

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Iron salts
  • Alkaline pH adjusters

Safety

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
1%
Sensitization risk Moderate

CIR Panel assessment confirms safety up to 1% concentration. EU restrictions apply for hair dye applications due to sensitization potential in oxidative environments, though skincare applications remain unrestricted.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

A scientifically-backed multifunctional antioxidant with proven brightening efficacy, though formulation complexity and moderate sensitization risk require careful consideration.


Related

Finding similar ingredients…