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Moumoujus

STYRAX TONKINENSIS RESIN OIL.

Questionable CAS 9000-72-0 / 84012-39-5 / PERFUMING

Styrax Tonkinensis Resin Oil is a botanical extract recognized for its multifunctional dermatological properties, encompassing antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory actions. It is particularly noted for its ability to form a protective film, which aids in moisture retention and supports skin regeneration.

Summary

Perfuming Skin Conditioning Antioxidant Antimicrobial Anti-inflammatory Astringent Soothing

Science

Mechanism of Action

This resin oil exerts its effects through several mechanisms, including antioxidant activity against free radicals and direct antimicrobial action against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities contribute to soothing irritated skin. Furthermore, it accelerates skin healing by forming a protective barrier that reduces transepidermal water loss, enhancing skin elasticity and smoothness. It also exhibits mild astringent and stimulating properties.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

0.4–0.8%

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrated in vitro antimicrobial activity against various Gram-positive (e.g., Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative (e.g., Escherichia coli) bacteria, with minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 3.49 to 7.71 mg/mL.
  2. 02 Recommended for use at 0.4–0.8% when incorporated into preservative blends (based on studies of the closely related Styrax benzoin resin extract).

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

The raw resin is typically a thick, sticky material; it is frequently combined with alcohol (e.g., ethanol) during extraction or in formulations to improve its mobility and workability. For optimal stability, it should be kept tightly sealed in original containers.

Synergies

  • Functions effectively as part of a preservative blend to enhance antimicrobial efficacy.

Conflicts

  • Contains potential allergen components (benzyl benzoate, benzyl cinnamate) that may increase skin sensitization risk, especially when co-formulated with other problematic ingredients.
  • Not suitable for use in candles or cold process (CP) soaps when diluted with dipropylene glycol (DPG).

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0.8%
Sensitization risk High

While direct CIR review for 'Styrax Tonkinensis Resin Oil' or 'Extract' is absent, a closely related ingredient, 'Styrax benzoin resin extract,' is known to contain volatile skin-sensitizers (cinnamic acid, cinnamyl cinnamate, benzyl cinnamate). Specifically, Styrax Tonkinensis Resin Extract may contain up to 0.5% benzyl benzoate and 0.8% benzyl cinnamate, components regulated by IFRA for their allergenic potential. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) indicate it 'May cause an allergic skin reaction,' 'Causes skin irritation,' and 'Causes serious eye irritation,' advising caution, particularly for individuals with sensitive skin.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

Despite its promising antioxidant, antimicrobial, and soothing benefits, the high irritancy and sensitization potential, coupled with its unreviewed CIR status and explicit warnings for sensitive skin, position Styrax Tonkinensis Resin Oil as a questionable ingredient for precision skincare formulations.

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