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Moumoujus

CITRACONIC ANHYDRIDE.

Avoid CAS 616-02-4 / NOT REPORTED

Citraconic Anhydride is a highly reactive chemical compound primarily known for its ability to reversibly modify primary amines. Due to its corrosive and toxic properties, it is strictly unsuitable for direct incorporation into skincare formulations.

Summary

Science

Mechanism of Action

This compound reacts with primary amines, forming a reversible amide linkage that also generates a terminal carboxylate. This bond is stable at neutral to alkaline pH (above 7) but rapidly hydrolyzes under acidic conditions (pH 4), releasing citraconic acid and freeing the amines. While this property is utilized in biochemistry for temporary amine blocking, a specific mechanism of action yielding cosmetic benefits for the skin is not documented.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Citraconic Anhydride is a hazardous substance with no established cosmetic utility, rendering the concept of 'dusting' in formulations irrelevant. Its severe hazard profile precludes any direct application in skincare.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 7 – 14
0 7 14

Stability

The anhydride linkage maintains stability in neutral to alkaline pH environments (greater than 7). However, it undergoes rapid hydrolysis under acidic conditions (pH 4), yielding citraconic acid. The substance is sensitive to moisture and must be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated space under an inert gas.

Conflicts

  • Bases
  • Oxidizing agents
  • Reducing agents
  • Strong acids/alkalis
  • Amines (including buffers like Tris and Glycine)
  • Water

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0%
Sensitization risk High

Citraconic Anhydride has not been reviewed by CIR or SCCS for cosmetic safety. Safety data sheets consistently classify it as corrosive, capable of causing severe skin burns and eye damage, and it may induce allergic skin reactions and respiratory sensitization. It is also toxic upon dermal contact, with a rabbit dermal LD50 of 218 mg/kg. Due to its hazardous nature, it is unequivocally unsuitable for direct application in cosmetic products.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Given its severe corrosive and toxic profile, coupled with a complete lack of established cosmetic benefits or safety data for skin application, Citraconic Anhydride must be explicitly avoided in all skincare formulations.

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