HYDROXYCITRONELLAL
What is it?
“Hydroxycitronellal or 7-hydroxy-3,7-dimethyloctanal has the chemical formula C10H20O2.” – Hydroxycitronellal wikipedia
Is hydroxycitronellal safe?
This ingredient belongs to the groups:
Hydroxycitronellal allergy
This fragrance chemical is classified as a frequent and well-recognized allergen in CosIng, the European Commission database for information on cosmetic substances and ingredients.
Also, the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation (SSNC) list this ingredient as causing allergies.
Because of its allergenic properties, it is restricted for use in cosmetics in the European Union. “Maximum concentration in ready for use preparation” is restricted to 1.0 %.
Contrary to what some believe, hydroxycitronellal is not banned for use in cosmetics within the European Union, only restricted.
Other hydroxycitronellal dangers
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) classifies this ingredient as “toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects, causes serious eye irritation and may cause an allergic skin reaction.”
Hydroxycitronellal in cosmetics
Hydroxycitronellal is used as a fragrance ingredient and fragrance enhancer in many cosmetic products*. Hydroxycitronellal in its natural form can be found in plants such as lavender.
However, when present in consumer products, including cosmetics, it is most likely a synthetical version. Synthetical produced from the naturally occurring fragrance chemical citronellal (not to be confused with citronellol).
The chemical has a sweet floral odor and is commonly found in:
- perfumes
- colognes
- fragrances
- hair products
- skin care products
- oral products.
We use the European Commissions definition of Cosmetics:
“Cosmetics range from everyday hygiene products such as soap, shampoo, deodorant, and toothpaste to luxury beauty items including perfumes and makeup”.
Did you find this ingredient in a product?
Comment and share with a link!
Yes I found it in a product
Hi “IJEOMATonye” – thank you for your comment :)
We also stuble upon it once in a while, seems to be common also in ‘natural’ or ‘eco’ cosmetics.
/Curious Chloride
Yes I found it in a product a revitalizing cream
I found it in my husband cologne it’s very loud..
Yes, I found it in a skin care product.
Yes i found in nivia cream blue color
Found it in Burt’s Bees skin oil
Ariana grande body mist “Cloud”
Found in Color Lux Direct Dye + led to allergic reaction.
i found it in a conditioner for my hair.(dr organis vitamin E conditioner) i have a very strong and fast allergic reaction to this conditioner so i am trying to find out what i am allergic to. it might be this!