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Moumoujus

PHENOXYACETALDEHYDE.

Questionable CAS 2120-70-9 / PERFUMING

Phenoxyacetaldehyde is a synthetic aromatic aldehyde primarily incorporated into cosmetic formulations for its distinct fragrance properties. It serves exclusively as an olfactory agent, lacking identified direct therapeutic benefits for skin health.

Summary

fragrance

Science

Mechanism of Action

This compound functions purely as a fragrance ingredient, imparting scent to formulations. Current research indicates no specific beneficial dermatological mechanisms, such as antioxidant, hydrating, or anti-inflammatory effects, associated with its application to the skin.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

As an aldehyde, Phenoxyacetaldehyde exhibits susceptibility to degradation in highly alkaline environments. It is important to consider potential incompatibilities with reducing sugars, peroxides, other aldehydes, trace metals, and primary amine groups during formulation. Its estimated water solubility is 1.048% at 25 °C, with a logP of 1.8, indicating balanced solubility in both aqueous and lipophilic phases.

Conflicts

  • alkalis
  • reducing sugars
  • peroxides
  • other aldehydes
  • trace metals
  • primary amines

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0.27%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) has concluded that existing information supports the use of phenoxyacetaldehyde, confirming it as non-genotoxic and not expected to be phototoxic or photoallergenic. Safety assessments for repeated dose toxicity (NOAEL = 33.33 mg/kg/day) and reproductive toxicity (NOAEL = 100 mg/kg/day) were derived from read-across analogs. A No Expected Sensitization Induction Level (NESIL) of 590 μg/cm² for skin sensitization was also determined from an analog. The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) mandates usage restrictions, with a maximum concentration of 0.27% in leave-on facial/body products (Category 3). Lower limits, such as 0.045% for lip products, and higher limits, such as 0.49% for rinse-off products, apply to other categories. Notably, there is no direct safety assessment from the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) or the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), nor a specific FDA status for cosmetic use.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

Phenoxyacetaldehyde serves exclusively as a fragrance component, offering no demonstrated skin benefits and presenting a high potential for irritancy, necessitating careful consideration for precision skincare formulations.

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