Banned in EU

4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor

A cosmetic ingredient used as light stabilizer, uv absorber, uv filter in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.

What is it?

(.+-.)-1,7,7-trimethyl-3-[(4-methylphenyl)methylene]bicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-one

What does it do?

4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:

  • Light stabilizer

    protects a cosmetic formulation from degradation by UV light, extending its shelf life

  • Uv absorber

    absorbs ultraviolet light, used in sunscreens and to protect formulations from UV degradation

  • Uv filter

    absorbs or reflects ultraviolet radiation, the active ingredient class in sunscreens

EU regulatory status

This ingredient is banned in the European Union.

4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor is listed under Annex II of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 (entry 1730), making it prohibited in cosmetic products placed on the EU market.

Classification: Prohibited by Regulation (EU) 2024/996 following CMR classification; previously permitted as a UV filter (former Annex VI entry 18). Non-compliant products may not be placed on the EU market from 1 May 2025.

Frequently asked questions

What is 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor?

4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. (.+-.)-1,7,7-trimethyl-3-[(4-methylphenyl)methylene]bicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-one

Is 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

No. 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor is banned for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Annex II of Regulation 1223/2009.

What does 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor do in cosmetic products?

4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: light stabilizer, uv absorber, uv filter.

What is the CAS number of 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor is 36861-47-9, 38102-62-4.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 03/04/2024