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Moumoujus

HEXAMETHYLINDANOPYRAN.

Avoid CAS 1222-05-5 / FRAGRANCE, PERFUMING

Hexamethylindanopyran, also known as Galaxolide, is a synthetic polycyclic musk compound primarily employed in skincare for its soft, clean, sweet musky aroma or to mask undesirable odors. However, despite its perfuming properties, its use is associated with significant regulatory restrictions and potential safety concerns.

Summary

masking perfuming

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions exclusively as a perfuming and masking agent within formulations. It does not exert any active dermatological benefits, but rather enhances the product's sensory profile through its characteristic scent.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Red flag below
0.001%

Hexamethylindanopyran offers no inherent skin efficacy, rendering the concept of 'dusting' irrelevant for this ingredient. However, its classification as an allergen necessitates mandatory declaration on the ingredient list when its concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products within the EU.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 3 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Demonstrates high stability across various environmental conditions, including resistance to light, heat, and oxidation.

Conflicts

  • strong acidic environments
  • strong oxidizing environments

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0.2%
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk High

The EU Scientific Committee for Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified Hexamethylindanopyran (Galaxolide) as an allergen and irritant. Consequently, it is classified as a restricted cosmetic ingredient in Annex III/336 of the European Cosmetics Regulation (EU) 2023/1545. Typical recommended usage levels in lotions and creams are between 0.05% and 0.2%. Of significant concern is an ongoing proposal from France (January 2025) to classify this substance as Reprotoxic 1B by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), indicating potential damage to the unborn child and suspected harm to fertility. While the Expert Panel for Fragrance Safety (RIFM) supports its use based on their assessments, the stringent EU regulations and pending reprotoxic classification highlight considerable safety reservations.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Given its classification as an allergen and irritant by the EU SCCS, mandatory labeling thresholds, and the pending Reprotoxic 1B classification, Hexamethylindanopyran is strongly advised against for use in precision skincare formulations.

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