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Moumoujus

EUGENIA CARYOPHYLLUS EXTRACT/ FORMALDEHYDE.

Avoid CAS 94333-73-0 / PERFUMING

This ingredient combines Eugenia Caryophyllus Extract, derived from the clove tree, with Formaldehyde. The extract is recognized for its broad spectrum of biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. However, the co-presence of Formaldehyde, a well-documented irritant, sensitizer, and human toxicant, raises significant safety concerns for skin application, primarily functioning as a preservative rather than providing skin benefits.

Summary

Fragrance Antimicrobial Anti-inflammatory Antioxidant Astringent Skin Conditioning Preservative

Science

Mechanism of Action

Eugenia Caryophyllus Extract exerts its effects through key compounds like eugenol, which inhibits bacterial growth by compromising cell membranes, and offers anti-inflammatory action by reducing pro-inflammatory markers such as TNF-α. It also functions as an antioxidant, scavenging free radicals and protecting against environmental damage, while its astringent qualities help refine skin appearance. Formaldehyde, conversely, acts primarily as a preservative, preventing microbial growth in formulations, but it does not contribute to skin health and is instead noted for its irritant and sensitizing properties.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Decreased hemolytic activity and the release of tumor necrosis factor alfa (TNF-α) in a dose-dependent manner, indicating anti-inflammatory potential.
  2. 02 Demonstrated 99% effectiveness in killing dust mites by pipetting and 81% by spraying, alongside significant biocidal activity against bacteria and fungi.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

This ingredient is not typically utilized in a 'dusted' form; therefore, dusting analysis metrics are not applicable.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 5 – 6
0 7 14

Stability

Eugenia Caryophyllus Extract maintains chemical stability under standard ambient conditions and should be stored securely. Formaldehyde in aqueous solutions rapidly equilibrates to methylene glycol, maintaining stability.

Conflicts

  • High concentrations of Eugenia Caryophyllus Extract, particularly its eugenol content, can lead to skin irritation, burning sensations, and sensitization.
  • Formaldehyde is recognized as incompatible with hair-smoothing products under typical usage concentrations and is specifically excluded from many 'Common Preservative Free' formulations due to its allergenic and irritant profile.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
0.074%
Sensitization risk High

Eugenia Caryophyllus Extract, while generally perceived as safe, has eugenol content that can induce allergic reactions and sensitivity, necessitating patch testing for sensitive or acne-prone skin. Any methyl salicylate present in the extract should not exceed 2% in finished cosmetic products. Formaldehyde is regulated with a maximum concentration of 0.074% w/w (or 0.2% w/w for formalin) in topical cosmetic products. However, it is classified by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and EU Cosmetics Directive as a known human toxicant and allergen, posing significant risks for irritation and sensitization.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Despite the potential beneficial properties of Eugenia Caryophyllus Extract, the inclusion of Formaldehyde, a known irritant, sensitizer, and human toxicant, renders this combined ingredient highly unsuitable for precision skincare formulations.

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