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Moumoujus

EPICHLOROHYDRIN.

Avoid CAS 106-89-8 / NOT REPORTED

Epichlorohydrin is a highly reactive chemical characterized by its electrophilic nature and capacity to act as an alkylating agent, which can induce significant cellular and genetic damage. It is definitively not recommended for direct application in skincare formulations due to its severe safety profile.

Summary

Science

Mechanism of Action

This compound functions as a potent electrophile and alkylating agent, directly interacting with biological molecules. Its mechanism involves inducing local cellular damage, causing DNA interstrand cross-links, chromosomal aberrations, and breaks. It also non-enzymatically binds to sulfhydryl groups in proteins and glutathione.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Red flag below
0%

Epichlorohydrin is not considered safe for direct use in cosmetics due to its classification as a probable human carcinogen, mutagenic properties, and high potential for irritation and sensitization. Any concentration is deemed unsafe for direct dermal application.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Epichlorohydrin exhibits high chemical reactivity due to its active chlorine and epoxy groups, leading to instability. It can undergo violent or even explosive reactions, including spontaneous polymerization, especially when exposed to strong acids, strong bases (alkalis), or heat. It also hydrolyzes in water, with a 50% hydrolysis rate observed in 8.2 days in distilled water.

Conflicts

  • strong oxidizers
  • strong acids
  • certain salts
  • strong bases (caustics/alkalis)
  • zinc
  • aluminum
  • water (can react violently)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0%
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk High

This compound is recognized as a probable or likely human carcinogen by major international health authorities, including EPA (Group B2), IARC (2A), and EU (Carcinogen Cat. 1B). Direct dermal exposure leads to irritation and burns, and it acts as a significant skin sensitizer. Concentrations above 1% are corrosive, while even diluted solutions below 1% are irritating. The Environmental Protection Agency advocates for a zero-tolerance policy in drinking water due to severe health concerns, unequivocally stating it is unsafe for direct cosmetic use.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Due to its classification as a probable human carcinogen, severe skin irritant and sensitizer, and high reactivity, epichlorohydrin must be entirely avoided in skincare formulations.

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