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Citral

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

What is it?

2,6-Octadienal, 3,7-dimethyl-; 3,7-Dimethyl-2,6-octadienal

What does it do?

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

  • Flavouring

    adds taste to oral-care products like toothpaste and mouthwash

  • Perfuming

    adds scent to a cosmetic product

EU regulatory status

This ingredient is restricted in the European Union.

Citral is listed under Annex III of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 (entry 70). It is permitted only under specific conditions, concentration limits, or in particular product types.

Frequently asked questions

What is Citral?

Citral is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. 2,6-Octadienal, 3,7-dimethyl-; 3,7-Dimethyl-2,6-octadienal

Is Citral allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

Only with restrictions. Citral is permitted in EU cosmetics only under specific conditions defined in Annex III of Regulation 1223/2009.

What does Citral do in cosmetic products?

Citral is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: flavouring, perfuming.

What is the CAS number of Citral?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Citral is 5392-40-5.

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