Science
Mechanism of Action
Upon direct skin contact, acrylonitrile induces severe irritation, blistering, and chemical burns. It can be absorbed through the skin, leading to systemic toxicity characterized by oxidative stress and oxidative DNA damage. Within the body, it is metabolized, in part, to cyanide, which contributes to its overall toxic effects.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Acrylonitrile is not used as a cosmetic ingredient, rendering dusting analysis irrelevant for skincare formulations.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Acrylonitrile is a reactive chemical prone to spontaneous polymerization when heated or exposed to strong alkalis. For storage stability, it is typically stabilized with 0.2-0.5% water and an inhibitor like methylhydroquinone (35-45 ppm). Maintaining a pH range of 6.0-7.5 in a 5% aqueous solution is crucial; a pH above 7.3-7.5 can trigger ionic polymerization, necessitating acidification.
Conflicts
- strong oxidizers (especially bromine)
- strong bases (e.g., potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide)
- strong acids
- copper and copper alloys
- ammonia
- amines
- peroxides or other free radical initiators
- complete absence of oxygen (for MEHQ inhibitor)
- ultraviolet light
- heat
- pressure
Safety
Safety Profile
Acrylonitrile is classified as a highly hazardous chemical and is explicitly not an ingredient for cosmetic use. It is recognized as a probable human carcinogen by the EPA and IARC, and 'reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen' by the National Toxicology Program (NTP). The California Safe Cosmetics Program lists it as a reportable ingredient due to concerns regarding carcinogenicity, neurotoxicity, and respiratory toxicity. The EU Cosmetics Directive classifies it as toxic or harmful. Direct skin contact causes severe irritation, redness, blistering, peeling, and delayed healing; prolonged exposure can lead to allergic skin reactions and burns resembling second-degree thermal burns.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Acrylonitrile is a highly toxic, carcinogenic chemical strictly prohibited from use in skincare products due to its severe health risks and lack of cosmetic utility.
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