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Moumoujus

P-TERT-BUTYL-ALPHA-METHYLHYDROCINNAMAL /METHYLANTHRANILATE SCHIFF BASE.

Avoid CAS 91-51-0 / PERFUMING

This ingredient is a Schiff base formed from p-tert-Butyl-alpha-methylhydrocinnamal (Lilial) and methylanthranilate. Primarily functioning as a fragrance, it was historically utilized for its scent-enhancing properties, potentially offering a sustained release profile, but is now globally restricted or banned due to significant safety concerns regarding its Lilial component.

Summary

Fragrance Perfuming Agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a fragrance ingredient, this Schiff base is designed to enhance the aromatic profile of a product and impart a scent to the skin. Its chemical structure as a Schiff base allows for a potential sustained release of its constituent fragrance molecules, which can theoretically prolong the aromatic effect.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
0%
Red flag below
0%

This ingredient is a Schiff base of p-tert-Butyl-alpha-methylhydrocinnamal (BMHCA or Lilial), an aldehyde classified as Toxic for Reproduction 2 under EU Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. Regulatory bodies, such as IFRA, assume 100% dissociation of restricted aldehydes from Schiff bases, meaning the problematic Lilial component is considered fully released. Lilial itself has been deemed 'not safe for use' in cosmetic products by the SCCS due to its potential to induce skin sensitization and has been banned in the EU since March 1, 2022.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Related Schiff bases involving methylanthranilate may undergo color changes, ranging from bright red to black-brown, particularly with extended synthesis times or direct combination with other aldehydes like vanillin. To prevent undesirable discoloration, sequential addition is not recommended.

Conflicts

  • Other aldehydes (e.g., vanillin) can cause strong color changes when directly combined.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0%
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk High

The aldehyde component, p-tert-Butyl-alpha-methylhydrocinnamal (Lilial), is classified as a Toxic for Reproduction 2 substance under Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. The SCCS has explicitly stated it is 'not safe for use' in cosmetic leave-on and rinse-off products due to its high potential for inducing skin sensitization. IFRA has issued a 'Restriction / Prohibition' for Lilial, advising against its use in IFRA Categories 1 and 6 (lipsticks and oral care products), and generally assumes 100% dissociation for restricted aldehydes within Schiff bases. Consequently, Lilial has been prohibited in the EU since March 1, 2022. While an older human experience study (1982) indicated no irritation or sensitization at 12% in petrolatum, this finding is superseded by current regulatory understanding of its component's reproductive toxicity and sensitization potential.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

This ingredient is strongly advised against due to its derivation from p-tert-Butyl-alpha-methylhydrocinnamal (Lilial), a substance classified as Toxic for Reproduction 2, posing significant sensitization risks, and now banned in the EU for cosmetic use, with regulators assuming full dissociation from Schiff bases.

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