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Moumoujus

METHYL EUGENOL.

Avoid CAS 93-15-2 / FRAGRANCE, PERFUMING

Methyl Eugenol is an aromatic compound predominantly utilized as a fragrance ingredient and masking agent in cosmetics. While exhibiting some antioxidant properties, its primary applications in skincare are limited due to significant safety concerns.

Summary

fragrance ingredient masking

Science

Mechanism of Action

Methyl Eugenol has demonstrated antioxidant capabilities by influencing oxidative stress pathways, notably through the activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). However, its beneficial mechanisms of action on skin within a skincare context are not extensively studied or practically applied, largely overshadowed by its safety profile.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.0002%
Red flag below
0.0002%

Methyl Eugenol is a red flag ingredient due to significant safety concerns, including genotoxicity and carcinogenicity. The SCCNFP (predecessor to SCCS) opinion advises against its intentional addition as a cosmetic ingredient in the EU and Canada. When it is naturally present in essential oils, stringent maximum concentration limits apply, such as 0.0002% for other leave-on products and oral hygiene products, and 0.002% in a fragrance cream. Any presence above these very low, regulatory-mandated thresholds (which are for unintentional inclusion) would be a significant concern, making intentional addition highly problematic.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Methyl Eugenol is generally stable to air, heat, and light, though it can darken and slowly thicken when exposed to air.

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0.0002%
Sensitization risk High

Methyl Eugenol raises significant safety concerns due to observed genotoxicity and carcinogenicity. It is classified as an irritant for skin and eyes, potentially causing respiratory irritation, and is suspected of causing cancer. The SCCNFP recommends it not be intentionally added to cosmetic products in the EU and Canada. While the FDA affirmed its GRAS status as a food additive in the USA, it is considering revoking this listing due to animal studies indicating carcinogenic potential. The listed maximum concentrations (e.g., 0.0002% for leave-on products) are for incidental presence from natural essential oils, not for intentional inclusion.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Methyl Eugenol should be avoided in precision skincare formulations due to its high irritancy, suspected genotoxicity and carcinogenicity, and the explicit regulatory advice against its intentional use, despite some antioxidant properties.

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