Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone
Synthetic ingredient with a violet and woody scent. On the EU list of 26 fragrance allergens.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Often triggers contact allergy in people sensitive to fragrance. SCCS recommends concentration limits.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Medium
- Allergen risk
- High
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone is a synthetic fragrance ingredient with a violet and woody scent. An ionone derivative produced by chemical synthesis. Where applied. Fragrance compositions and cosmetic scenting – creams, shower gels, deodorants, shampoos, household chemicals. Perfumery concentration 0.1–5%, cosmetics – trace amounts. Safety and regulation. On the EU list of 26 mandatory fragrance allergens (Regulation 1223/2009). At concentrations above 0.001% in leave-on and 0.01% in rinse-off – mandatory label declaration. Contact dermatitis in 1–3% of the population, up to 10% in patients with multiple fragrance allergies. IFRA limits maximum concentrations by product category. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. No direct data, but gynecologists recommend avoiding heavily scented products during pregnancy due to higher skin sensitivity and risk of new sensitization. Not suitable for. Patients with known fragrance allergy, contact dermatitis history, atopy, very sensitive skin, child face under age 3. Alternative – fragrance-free lines: La Roche-Posay Toleriane, CeraVe, Avène Tolérance.
Frequently asked questions
Is Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone safe during pregnancy?
Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone for?
Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone suits: normal, dry, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
Can Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone irritate the skin?
Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Can Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone cause an allergic reaction?
Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
What is Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone and what does it do in cosmetics?
Synthetic ingredient with a violet and woody scent.
What's the INCI name for Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone?
The INCI name is Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone. It may also appear as: Isomethyl Ionone.
See Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
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