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4-METHYLBENZALDEHYDE.

Optional CAS 104-87-0 / FRAGRANCE

4-Methylbenzaldehyde is an aromatic aldehyde compound that serves exclusively as a fragrance ingredient in cosmetic formulations. This synthetic compound delivers a distinctive sweet, cherry-like aroma while being metabolized to p-toluic acid when applied to skin. It functions solely for sensory enhancement rather than therapeutic benefit.

fragrance flavoring

Science

Acts as an olfactory enhancer through volatile aromatic compounds that provide fragrance to cosmetic products. Upon skin contact, aldehyde dehydrogenase enzymes convert it to p-toluic acid, though this metabolic pathway offers no recognized skincare benefits.


Research

High confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A


Transparency

Not commonly dusted

As a fragrance component with no therapeutic claims, dusting is not applicable to this ingredient


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4.5 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Limited water solubility at 2.27 mg/mL but excellent solubility in ethanol, ether, and oil phases. Vulnerable to oxidative degradation and photodegradation above 290nm wavelength, requiring light-protective packaging.

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong bases
  • Strong reducing agents

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
0.2%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Moderate

CIR 2023 assessment confirms safety at concentrations up to 0.2% in non-spray facial applications. Classified as GHS Category 2 irritant in concentrated form but safe within cosmetic use limits.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Optional

A functional but non-essential fragrance ingredient with moderate irritation potential and no therapeutic skincare benefits.


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