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Eugenol

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

What is it?

Phenol, 2-methoxy-4-(2-propenyl)-

What does it do?

Eugenol 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

  • Perfuming

    adds scent to a cosmetic product

  • Tonic

    provides a toning effect on skin or scalp — generally tightening or refreshing

EU regulatory status

This ingredient is restricted in the European Union.

Eugenol is listed under Annex III of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 (entry 71). It is permitted only under specific conditions, concentration limits, or in particular product types.

Frequently asked questions

What is Eugenol?

Eugenol is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Phenol, 2-methoxy-4-(2-propenyl)-

Is Eugenol allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

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

What does Eugenol do in cosmetic products?

Eugenol is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: denaturant, perfuming, tonic.

What is the CAS number of Eugenol?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Eugenol is 97-53-0.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 12/07/2019