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Moumoujus

TRICRESYL PHOSPHATE.

Avoid CAS 1330-78-5 / PLASTICISER

Tricresyl Phosphate (TCP) is an organic phosphate compound primarily utilized in various industrial applications as a plasticizer and flame retardant. While it has been identified in some cosmetic formulations, it is globally recognized for its severe neurotoxic properties.

Summary

Science

Mechanism of Action

Upon absorption through the skin, lungs, or digestive system, Tricresyl Phosphate, particularly its ortho-isomer (TOCP), is metabolized by liver enzymes into cresyl saligenin phosphate (SCOTP), a potent neurotoxin. This metabolite irreversibly binds to neuropathy target esterase (NTE) in nerve cells, leading to a 'dying back' neuropathy where long nerve fibers degenerate. It can also inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE), an enzyme vital for nerve signal transmission, potentially resulting in uncontrollable muscle spasms, respiratory paralysis, convulsions, or death. Liquid tricresyl phosphate is also a direct irritant to the skin and eyes.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted
Red flag below
0.1%

Tricresyl Phosphate is a known neurotoxin. The World Health Organization (1990) has unequivocally stated that establishing a safe level of exposure for the highly toxic tri-ortho-cresyl phosphate (TOCP) isomer is not possible, deeming it a major human health hazard. While modern commercial TCP typically contains less than 0.1% of TOCP, its overall toxicity and high use restrictions by EWG warrant its complete exclusion from precision skincare.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 0 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Tricresyl Phosphate exhibits good stability in neutral and acidic media at ambient temperatures. It is noted for its favorable heat resistance and hydrolytic stability.

Conflicts

  • Alkaline medium (readily hydrolyzes)
  • Strong oxidizing agents (may release toxic phosphorus oxides)
  • Strong reducing agents such as hydrides

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk High

Tricresyl Phosphate is classified as a neurotoxin, with toxicity through both ingestion and skin absorption. The World Health Organization has deemed the ortho-isomer (TOCP) a major human health hazard with no safe exposure level. It carries 'high' use restrictions from EWG. Direct contact with liquid tricresyl phosphate is irritating to the skin and eyes, and a contact allergy is a known possibility.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Given its profound neurotoxicity, high irritancy profile, and the inability to establish a safe exposure level for its toxic ortho-isomer, Tricresyl Phosphate is unequivocally an ingredient to be avoided in all precision skincare formulations.

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