Allowed in EU

Anethole

A cosmetic ingredient used as denaturant, fragrance in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.

What is it?

Benzene, 1-methoxy-4-(1-propenyl)-

What does it do?

Anethole is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:

  • Denaturant

    makes ethanol in cosmetics unfit for drinking — required by regulation when alcohol is used

  • Fragrance

    provides scent or masks the natural odour of other ingredients

EU regulatory status

Anethole is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.

Frequently asked questions

What is Anethole?

Anethole is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Benzene, 1-methoxy-4-(1-propenyl)-

Is Anethole allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

Yes. Anethole is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.

What does Anethole do in cosmetic products?

Anethole is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: denaturant, fragrance.

What is the CAS number of Anethole?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Anethole is 104-46-1.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2010