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Moumoujus

FERRIC CHLORIDE.

Avoid CAS 7705-08-0 / ASTRINGENT

Ferric Chloride is an inorganic iron salt primarily recognized for its potent astringent and hemostatic properties. While in vitro research suggests its potential to stimulate the proliferation of various human skin cells, its highly acidic nature and designation as a strong irritant present significant challenges for dermatological formulation and safety.

Summary

Astringent Antioxidant Hemostatic agent Keratinocyte stimulator Melanocyte stimulator Fibroblast stimulator

Science

Mechanism of Action

Ferric chloride functions as a robust hemostatic agent by inducing protein coagulation, facilitating blood clotting upon interaction with blood proteins. In an aqueous environment, it hydrolyzes to form iron hydroxide, acting as a flocculant to bind and precipitate impurities, which contributes to its astringent action. Furthermore, a related compound, ferrous ferric chloride, has been observed in in vitro studies to stimulate the proliferation of human skin keratinocytes, melanocytes, and fibroblasts, indicating a potential for cellular activation.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 5–50%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 An animal study demonstrated Ferric Chloride's efficacy as a hemostatic agent at concentrations between 5% and 50%, significantly reducing superficial bleeding time in rats compared to control methods.
  2. 02 An in vitro study found that ferrous ferric chloride (FFC) stimulated the proliferation of human skin keratinocytes, melanocytes, and fibroblasts in cell cultures, suggesting regenerative potential for these vital skin cells.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 1.8 – 2
0 7 14

Stability

A 1% aqueous solution typically exhibits a pH of approximately 1.8-2.0, indicating pronounced acidity. Its precipitation dynamics are highly pH-dependent, and its solubility in water increases with elevated temperatures.

Conflicts

  • Bases
  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong acids
  • Steel
  • Metals
  • Leather

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk High

There is no direct safety assessment from the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) or SCCS for cosmetic applications. While the FDA has affirmed its safety for specific, limited uses in food, Ferric Chloride is classified as highly corrosive and a strong irritant to both skin and eyes, with documented potential for inducing allergic skin reactions.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Despite its demonstrated hemostatic capabilities and in vitro potential for cellular proliferation, Ferric Chloride's severe acidity, corrosive nature, and high irritancy risk make it unsuitable for safe and effective integration into Moumoujus skincare formulations.

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