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Moumoujus

CINEOLE.

Valuable CAS 470-67-7 / SKIN PROTECTING

Cineole, also known as eucalyptol, is a potent monoterpene oxide commonly found in eucalyptus oil. It functions primarily as a skin penetration enhancer, while also offering notable anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant benefits.

Summary

Skin penetration enhancer Anti-inflammatory Antimicrobial Antioxidant Perfuming agent Tonic

Science

Mechanism of Action

Cineole enhances skin penetration by temporarily and reversibly disrupting the polar head groups and lipid alkyl tails of intercellular lipids within the stratum corneum, thereby increasing membrane fluidity and facilitating the absorption of other active ingredients. It exhibits anti-inflammatory properties through the reduction of pro-inflammatory mediators such as NO, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, and by inhibiting NF-κB activity. Additionally, it provides antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 1–5%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical studies demonstrate enhanced skin penetration of substances like chlorhexidine at concentrations ranging from 1% to 5%, achieved by disrupting stratum corneum lipids.
  2. 02 A 2% (v/v) concentration significantly increased chlorhexidine absorption into the skin, leading to higher localized concentrations.
  3. 03 A 1% eucalyptol-rich oil gel was shown to reduce acne blemishes and associated redness in a 13-subject clinical trial involving sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Data does not indicate Cineole is commonly 'dusted' in formulations; it is an active ingredient with specific functional roles.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Cineole exhibits low aqueous solubility and stability, which can be significantly improved through nanoemulsion formulations. For optimal stability, it should be stored in a tightly closed container in a dry, well-ventilated environment at a recommended temperature of -20 °C.

Synergies

  • Enhances penetration of other active ingredients into the skin.

Conflicts

  • Acids
  • Bases
  • Hydrohalic acids (forms adducts)
  • o-Cresol (forms adducts)
  • Resorcinol (forms adducts)
  • Phosphoric acid (forms adducts)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0.1%
Sensitization risk Moderate

Cineole (eucalyptol) as a standalone ingredient has not been directly reviewed by CIR. However, it is considered safe up to 0.4% in leave-on cosmetic formulations, when formulated to be non-sensitizing and when derived from Eucalyptus globulus (which can contain 70-95% eucalyptol). The SCCS recommends a maximum concentration of 0.1% for eucalyptol in non-aerosolized face creams for adults (conforming to ISO 4730:2017). It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by FEMA and approved by the US FDA for food and certain OTC uses. However, cineole is classified as an irritant to skin and eyes, and a potential skin sensitizer, particularly at higher concentrations (e.g., 25-100%).

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Cineole is a valuable ingredient for precisely enhancing the delivery of other actives and offering anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits, requiring careful formulation within strict concentration limits due to its potential for irritation and sensitization.

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