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Moumoujus

TETRAMETHRIN.

Avoid CAS 7696-12-0 / ANTIMICROBIAL

Tetramethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid compound primarily utilized as a potent insecticide, known for its neurotoxic action against pests. It is explicitly not approved or recognized for cosmetic applications and carries significant safety concerns, including its classification as a potential carcinogen and known dermal adverse effects.

Summary

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a Type I pyrethroid, Tetramethrin primarily acts by disrupting the normal function of voltage-gated sodium channels in nerve cells, delaying their closure. In the context of human dermal exposure, this mechanism can induce reversible hyperactivity of sensory nerve fibers, leading to sensations such as tingling, numbness, or prickling, collectively known as paraesthesiae.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Tetramethrin is not an ingredient used in cosmetic formulations; therefore, the concept of 'dusting' is not applicable in a skincare context.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Tetramethrin exhibits sensitivity to both strong acids and alkalis, undergoing hydrolysis in their presence. It demonstrates stability under normal storage and use conditions and remains stable on storage up to approximately 50 °C.

Conflicts

  • strong acids
  • strong bases
  • oxidizing agents
  • inorganic carriers

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Low

Tetramethrin is explicitly prohibited for use in cosmetic products within the European Union, being listed in Annex II of the Cosmetic Products Regulation. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates it as a pesticide and classifies it as 'Suggestive Evidence of Carcinogenic Potential'. Furthermore, in 2018, it was classified as a Category 2 carcinogen by the European Commission Directorate-General for the Environment. While animal studies (guinea pigs) indicated it was neither a primary irritant nor a skin sensitizer in specific patch tests (1% solution in corn oil), this contradicts general occupational exposure reports. Repeated dermal contact is widely known to cause significant skin irritation, manifesting as rash, itching, redness, and the aforementioned paraesthesiae. Safety Data Sheets universally recommend avoiding skin contact and utilizing appropriate protective clothing.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Tetramethrin is a hazardous pyrethroid insecticide, explicitly prohibited in cosmetic products within the EU, with classification as a potential carcinogen and known high skin irritancy, presenting no skincare benefits.

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