Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

MADROX.

Questionable CAS 37514-30-0 / PERFUMING

MADROX, chemically known as 1-Methyl-1-methoxycyclododecane, is a synthetic fragrance compound that provides complex ambergris, woody, and fougère notes. It offers no direct therapeutic or cosmetic benefits to the skin, and its use in precision skincare is heavily restricted due to potential for irritation and sensitization.

Summary

Fragrance Ingredient Perfuming

Science

Mechanism of Action

MADROX does not exhibit any reported mechanism of action on the skin to provide therapeutic or cosmetic benefits. Its sole function within formulations is to contribute a specific olfactive profile, characterized by ambergris, woody, fougère, and chypre notes, acting purely as a perfuming agent.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.0015%
Red flag below
0.0015%

While MADROX is not commonly 'dusted' for purported active benefits, its restricted usage levels make exceeding the threshold a significant concern. The dusting threshold, aligning with IFRA Category 3 restrictions for face/body products, is 0.0015%. Any formulation containing MADROX above this percentage would be a red flag, indicating a potential risk of irritation, sensitization, and systemic toxicity.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 2 – 11
0 7 14

Stability

MADROX demonstrates good chemical robustness and stability across a broad pH range of 2 to 11, allowing its incorporation into diverse product types including acid cleaners, fabric conditioners, antiperspirants, shampoos, and soaps.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed as a skincare active
Max tested
0.0015%
Sensitization risk Moderate

MADROX is primarily a fragrance ingredient. A closely related compound, methoxycyclododecane, has been classified as a weak skin sensitizer with a No Expected Sensitization Induction Level (NESIL) of 1000 μg/cm2. Concentrated forms of MADROX are noted to be irritating to eyes, respiratory system, and skin. GHS classifications also indicate 'Causes skin irritation' and 'May cause an allergic skin reaction'. IFRA standards restrict its usage in finished products, with a maximum limit of 0.0015% for products applied to the face/body (Category 3) due to systemic toxicity concerns. It has not been found to be genotoxic. Pregnancy safety information is not available.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

MADROX offers no direct skincare benefits and poses moderate risks of irritation and sensitization, making its inclusion in precision skincare formulations questionable.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…