Synthetic fragrance with a lily-of-the-valley scent, known as Lilial. The EU banned it in cosmetics from March 2022 due to reproductive toxicity.
Topical application
DVery weak or conflicting data.
The EU CLP regulator classifies Lilial as Repro 1B. After the ban manufacturers reformulate old lines, although the ingredient still appears in old stock.
Butylphenyl Methylpropional (Lilial) is a synthetic aromatic aldehyde with a floral lily-of-the-valley scent. From the 1960s it was widely used in perfumes, shampoos, hygiene products, household cleaners. In March 2022 the EU banned it in cosmetics. Reason for the ban. EU Regulation 2021/1902 classified Lilial as a reproductive toxicant category 1B (CMR – carcinogenic, mutagenic, reprotoxic). Basis – animal studies showing impaired fertility and fetal development. From 1 March 2022 sale of any cosmetic containing Lilial in EU and UK is prohibited. Where used. Eau de toilette, perfumes, mass-market shampoos, conditioners, lotions, laundry powders – a 'fresh floral' accord ingredient. In Spain banned after 2022, but old mass-market stock (2020–2021 production) may still appear – check expiry dates and INCI list. Safety. Contact allergy is among the most frequent fragrance allergens in the EU. Before 2022 it was on the mandatory list of 26 declared allergens. Beyond reproductive toxicity, the sensitisation potential is high. Pregnancy and lactation – strictly avoid. That is the basis of the ban: Lilial accumulates in fat tissue and crosses the placenta and into breast milk. If you accidentally used an old-stock product, do not panic – a single topical exposure at cosmetic concentrations is not critical, but avoid regular use. What to look for on the label. INCI 'Butylphenyl Methylpropional' or trade names Lilial, p-BMHCA, Lysmeral. Not in new EU cosmetics since 2022. May appear in imports from less regulated countries (US, JP, KR) – check carefully. Realistic assessment. An EU-banned ingredient. Do not buy new cosmetics with it, dispose of old stock. Floral alternatives – hedione, iranilone, lily-of-the-valley accords without Lilial.
Irritation potential
HighAllergen risk
HighPregnancy
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Butylphenyl Methylpropional is not recommended during pregnancy. Consider an alternative from the same category.
Use with caution in: sensitive.
Yes, Butylphenyl Methylpropional has high irritation potential. Start at low concentrations, introduce gradually, and always use SPF during the day.
Butylphenyl Methylpropional has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
Synthetic fragrance with a lily-of-the-valley scent, known as Lilial.
Published: · updated:
Use with caution
The INCI name is Butylphenyl Methylpropional. It may also appear as: Lilial, p-(1,1-Dimethylpropyl)-alpha-Methylhydrocinnamaldehyde.