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

ACETALDEHYDE.

Avoid CAS 75-07-0 / FRAGRANCE

A highly reactive compound primarily used as a fragrance component in cosmetics, known for its extreme volatility and potential for skin irritation. Despite safety approval at concentrations up to 0.01% by European regulators, its classification as a possible carcinogen and high irritancy profile make it a controversial ingredient in skincare formulations.

Summary

fragrance flavoring agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

Functions as a highly reactive electrophile that forms covalent bonds with skin proteins, triggering the release of inflammatory mediators like histamine and bradykinin, which cause vasodilation and sensory irritation leading to facial flushing and discomfort.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range ≤0.01%
Optimal

0.01%

Key findings

  1. 01 RIFM study (1976) on 28 volunteers at 2% showed no sensitization but concentrations >1% proved acutely irritating
  2. 02 SCCS safety assessment (2012) established 0.01% as maximum safe concentration for all cosmetic applications

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.005%
Red flag below
0.01%

Given its extreme volatility and irritancy potential, brands often use trace amounts below 0.005% for fragrance purposes while avoiding disclosure due to safety concerns.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 3 – 5
0 7 14

Stability

Extremely unstable with boiling point of 20.1°C, requires acidic conditions to prevent aldol condensation and conversion to acetic acid and ethanol at pH >8

Conflicts

  • Strong bases
  • Strong acids
  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Reducing agents
  • Amines

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0.01%
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk Low

Classified as Category 2 carcinogen in EU and IARC 2B possible human carcinogen due to DNA damage potential; high volatility creates inhalation risks during application

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy High
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

The combination of carcinogenic classification, extreme irritancy, and formulation instability makes acetaldehyde unsuitable for precision skincare applications.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…

References

Sources