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Moumoujus

DODECYL GALLATE.

Avoid CAS 1166-52-5 / ANTIOXIDANT

Dodecyl Gallate is a fat-soluble ester of gallic acid, valued for its potent antioxidant and preservative properties. It also exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria, and may offer benefits in sebum regulation.

Summary

Antioxidant Preservative Antimicrobial Sebum Regulator

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions as a robust antioxidant by employing both chain-breaking and preventive mechanisms, primarily facilitated by its pyrogallol moiety. It actively inhibits the generation of superoxide radicals through xanthine oxidase inhibition and reduces uric acid formation. The hydrophobic dodecyl group enhances its preventive antioxidative action. Furthermore, Dodecyl Gallate acts as an antimicrobial agent by disrupting microbial biomembranes and impeding the membrane respiratory chain, effectively targeting fungi, yeast, and various bacteria, including B. subtilis and MRSA. Preliminary data also suggests a potential role in regulating sebum production.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Dodecyl Gallate is practically insoluble in water but freely soluble in ethanol and ether, and also soluble in acetone, methanol, and peanut oil, demonstrating superior fat solubility due to its extended alkyl chain. It is sensitive to air exposure.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk High

While Dodecyl Gallate is recognized as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for food use and included in the FDA Inactive Ingredients Guide for topical preparations, it is considered a possible human dermal toxicant or allergen. It exhibits the strongest sensitization potential among gallic acid esters, with direct skin contact capable of causing allergic contact dermatitis, manifesting as burning, irritation, and redness. Although allergic reactions to gallates are rare, their reported incidence through patch testing has increased. Cross-reactivity between gallates (propyl, octyl, dodecyl) is possible, advising caution for individuals with known sensitivities. The CIR has reviewed Propyl Gallate, deeming it safe up to 0.1% in cosmetics; however, no specific cosmetic maximum concentration has been established for Dodecyl Gallate.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Despite its beneficial antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, Dodecyl Gallate presents a high risk for sensitization and allergic contact dermatitis, making its inclusion unsuitable for precision skincare formulations aiming for broad skin compatibility and minimal adverse reactions.

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