Fragrance ingredient with an anise scent. Occurs in star anise essential oils and appears on the EU list of 26 allergens.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Rare but documented sensitizer. EU requires mandatory labeling.
Anise Alcohol (p-methoxybenzyl alcohol) is a fragrance ingredient with an anise scent. A natural component of star anise, anise, vanilla, and Peruvian balsam essential oils. Synthetic anise alcohol is usually used in cosmetics. Where applied. Perfumery and cosmetic scenting – creams, soaps, shampoos. Concentration 0.01–0.5%. Safety and regulation. On the EU list of 26 mandatory fragrance allergens (Regulation 1223/2009). Contact dermatitis in 1–2% of the population. Patients allergic to anise, fennel, or Peruvian balsam – cross-sensitization possible. At concentrations above 0.001% in leave-on and 0.01% in rinse-off – mandatory label declaration. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. No direct data. Apiaceae essential oils (anise, fennel) are also recommended to avoid in pregnancy due to a theoretical link to uterine contractions. Not suitable for. Known anise, fennel, or Peruvian balsam allergy, fragrance allergy, atopic dermatitis. Alternative – fragrance-free lines.
Irritation potential
MediumAllergen risk
HighPregnancy
CautionSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora 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.
Anise Alcohol should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Anise Alcohol suits: normal, dry, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
Anise Alcohol has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Anise Alcohol has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
Fragrance ingredient with an anise scent.
Published: · updated:
Use with caution
The INCI name is Anise Alcohol. It may also appear as: Anisyl Alcohol.