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Moumoujus

PHTHALIMIDOPEROXYCAPROIC ACID.

Insufficient Data CAS 128275-31-0 / OXIDISING

Phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid (PAP) is a synthetic organic peroxy acid distinguished by its non-radical bleaching mechanism. Primarily recognized for its efficacy in teeth whitening, it functions by directly oxidizing chromophores without generating free radicals, thus minimizing typical collateral damage associated with traditional peroxides.

Summary

Oxidizing

Science

Mechanism of Action

PAP operates through a peracid oxygen transfer (epoxidation) pathway, directly transferring oxygen atoms to organic chromophores and polyphenol-based stains. This mechanism avoids the production of reactive oxygen species and free radicals, leading to a bleaching effect that is notably less erosive and less likely to cause sensitivity or damage compared to traditional peroxide-based oxidizers in specific applications.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 10–15%
Optimal

12%

Key findings

  1. 01 Studies indicate that PAP concentrations between 10-15% are optimal for teeth whitening, effectively balancing bleaching power with user comfort and formulation stability.
  2. 02 At 12% or less, PAP has demonstrated effective teeth stain removal without causing significant enamel demineralization or cytotoxicity in cellular assays, suggesting safety for daily oral use.
  3. 03 A novel PAP+ gel formulation, including additives, was found to be superior to a 6% hydrogen peroxide gel in treating complex polyphenol stains, achieving an improvement of approximately eight VITA® Bleachedguide shades over six 10-minute treatments. This formulation did not erode enamel or reduce its surface microhardness, unlike commercial peroxide gels.
  4. 04 Research shows PAP treatment leads to no significant enamel surface changes, effectively reducing damage and preserving surface morphology and hardness of teeth, while delivering a noticeable whitening effect without irritating oral mucosa or dentin.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 7 – 8.5
0 7 14

Stability

Optimized PAP formulations maintain effectiveness and stability within a near-neutral to slightly alkaline pH range (7.0–8.5).

Conflicts

  • Alkali
  • Solvents (without substantial water dilution or specific compatibility assessment)
  • Hydrogen peroxide (not recommended due to risks of unpredictable oxidative interactions without clinical validation)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
12%
Sensitization risk Moderate

EWG indicates a potential for 'high' irritation to skin, eyes, or lungs, and 'low_moderate' non-reproductive organ system toxicity for Phthalimidoperoxycaproic Acid generally. While considered safe and effective for *teeth whitening* at recommended concentrations (≤12%) with no reported irritation to oral mucosa or dentin, temporary skin irritation may occur upon direct skin contact. Regulatory status for a specific PAP-containing teeth whitening product in the US classifies it as an 'unapproved drug other' due to unproven safety and efficacy.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Insufficient Data

While Phthalimidoperoxycaproic Acid demonstrates robust efficacy and safety for teeth whitening applications, there is a lack of clinical data to support its benefits or safety for direct skincare use, and general warnings for skin irritation exist.

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