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Moumoujus

HYDROXYISOHEXYL 3-CYCLOHEXENE CARBOXALDEHYDE.

Avoid CAS 31906-04-4 / 51414-25-6 / FRAGRANCE, PERFUMING

HYDROXYISOHEXYL 3-CYCLOHEXENE CARBOXALDEHYDE (HICC) is a synthetic fragrance compound primarily valued for its mild, floral aroma and its ability to stabilize scent compositions. However, this ingredient is a potent contact allergen, well-documented for its capacity to induce and elicit allergic contact dermatitis. Due to significant safety concerns, its use in cosmetic products has been permanently banned in the European market.

Summary

Fragrance

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient's primary function is as a synthetic fragrance, contributing a delicate floral scent and helping to maintain the longevity of fragrance profiles in products. Crucially, its mechanism of action concerning skin health is as a contact allergen. When skin comes into contact with HICC, particularly in individuals who have become sensitized, it can trigger an immune response that manifests as allergic contact dermatitis.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.0029–15%
Optimal

0%

Key findings

  1. 01 Allergic reactions were elicited in 10% of previously sensitized subjects at a concentration of 0.0029% (29 ppm).
  2. 02 A concentration of 0.0662% (662 ppm) elicited allergic reactions in 50% of sensitized subjects.
  3. 03 In a deodorant use test, 0.02% (200 ppm) caused unilateral eczema in 9 out of 14 previously sensitized patients.
  4. 04 Median patch test thresholds for sensitized individuals reacting to repeated open application tests (ROAT) ranged from 0.06% to 2%.
  5. 05 Induction of allergy was observed during human repeated insult patch tests, with 4 out of 119 subjects showing scattered to moderate responses during induction with 15% HICC.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Red flag below
0.0029%

While not typically 'dusted' as a beneficial active ingredient, the presence of Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde at any concentration, even as low as 0.0029%, is a significant red flag. This is due to its potent allergenic properties capable of eliciting severe reactions in sensitized individuals, and its status as a permanently banned substance in the European market.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Unknown
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Formulations containing the ingredient at 125 mg/ml demonstrated stability for at least 24 hours at 22°C±5°C and for a minimum of 14 days when stored at 5°C±3°C.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0%
Sensitization risk High

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) defers assessment of individual fragrance ingredients to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA). IFRA standards previously restricted its use due to sensitization potential. The European Commission's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) concluded that existing use levels were unsafe, causing both induction and elicitation of contact allergy. As a result, Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde has been permanently banned from the European market, with the ban fully effective by August 2021 (some sources indicate August 2019).

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Due to its well-established potent allergenic properties capable of inducing and eliciting severe skin reactions at low concentrations, coupled with its permanent ban in the European market, Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde should be strictly avoided in all skincare formulations.

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