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Moumoujus

ALPHA-ISOMETHYL IONONE.

Avoid CAS 127-51-5 / PERFUMING, SKIN CONDITIONING

Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone is a synthetic aromatic compound primarily utilized in skincare formulations for its pleasant floral-woody scent, often described as violet or orris-like. Its function is purely sensory, contributing to the product's olfactory profile and masking other ingredient odors, without offering direct benefits to skin health or function.

Summary

perfuming

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient interacts with the human olfactory system, triggering scent perception to impart a specific aroma profile to cosmetic products. It does not engage in biochemical or physiological pathways within the skin to provide therapeutic or functional dermatological effects, such as hydration, anti-aging, or protective properties.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.001%
Red flag below
0.001%

As a common fragrance allergen, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone may be formulated below the 0.001% EU declaration threshold for leave-on products. This practice allows its inclusion without explicit ingredient list disclosure, posing a significant transparency concern for consumers with fragrance sensitivities despite offering no direct skincare benefits.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone exhibits robust compatibility with typical fragrance systems and various cosmetic bases, displaying enhanced stability compared to some natural fragrance compounds. However, its olfactory integrity is vulnerable to external factors such as light, temperature, and specific packaging, necessitating precise formulation management including antioxidant systems and rigorous stability testing.

Conflicts

  • Water-rich systems without optimized solubilization, potentially leading to haze or phase separation.
  • Specific polymers and surfactants, which may alter fragrance availability, perceived intensity, and product clarity.
  • Exposure to light and elevated temperatures, which can induce oxidation and instability of the overall fragrance mixture.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
0.001%
Sensitization risk High

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Panel deems Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone safe at regulated concentrations, largely deferring to IFRA guidelines. The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) mandates strict concentration limits due to its established potential for skin sensitization. In the EU, it is restricted under EC Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 (Annex III) following SCCS review. Its presence must be declared on product labels if it exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products or 0.01% in rinse-off products to mitigate allergic reaction risks. The FDA approves its use as a food flavoring agent, but does not specifically restrict it in cosmetics.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone serves exclusively as a fragrance, offering no direct skin benefits and carrying a significant risk of skin sensitization, making its inclusion unsuitable for precision skincare.

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