Hydroxycitronellal
Synthetic ingredient with a lily-of-the-valley scent. On the EU list of 26 fragrance allergens with concentration limits.
Evidence by route
Topical application
SCCS caps concentration due to frequent positive patch tests. Sensitive skin reacts noticeably more often than normal.
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
Hydroxycitronellal is a synthetic perfumery component with a lily-of-the-valley scent. The natural flower contains no such substance – its scent is replicated synthetically because natural lily-of-the-valley essential oil cannot be produced. Where applied. Perfumery, eaux de parfum, body lotions, floral creams, household chemistry. In Spain – Carolina Herrera, Loewe, Adolfo Dominguez, and many classic European perfume houses. Allergenicity. On the EU list of 26 mandatory-labeled fragrance allergens (Annex III Regulation 1223/2009). According to IVDK data, sensitization in 0.5-1.5% of dermatitis patients. ESCD keeps it in the standard patch-test panel. Safety. SCCS 2012 (Opinion 1459/11) identified hydroxycitronellal as a strong sensitizer and limited its concentration in leave-on products to 1.4% (a full ban was initially planned). No limit in rinse-off (soap, shampoo), but labeling on the package is required at significant amounts. Pregnancy and lactation – topical use at cosmetic concentrations is acceptable, no direct teratogenicity data. With existing sensitization – avoid.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hydroxycitronellal safe during pregnancy?
Hydroxycitronellal should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Hydroxycitronellal for?
Hydroxycitronellal suits: normal, dry, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
Can Hydroxycitronellal irritate the skin?
Hydroxycitronellal has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Can Hydroxycitronellal cause an allergic reaction?
Hydroxycitronellal has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
What is Hydroxycitronellal and what does it do in cosmetics?
Synthetic ingredient with a lily-of-the-valley scent.
What's the INCI name for Hydroxycitronellal?
The INCI name is Hydroxycitronellal.
See Hydroxycitronellal 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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