ACETALDEHYDE
Commonly Found In
Overview
ACETALDEHYDE is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for FRAGRANCE. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Ethanal, Acetic aldehyde, Ethyl aldehyde
Key Benefits
No skin benefits. Acetaldehyde is a fragrance precursor and industrial chemical classified as an IARC Group 1 carcinogen; it is banned in EU cosmetics.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; reactive volatile aldehyde not used as a topical cosmetic ingredient.
Source: Physicochemical properties; ECHA REACH data
Irritancy Rating
Moderate-to-high irritancy; acetaldehyde is a reactive volatile compound that irritates skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. IARC Group 1 carcinogen (via ethanol metabolism). Listed in EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II as prohibited. Any cosmetic presence is trace/incidental.
Source: EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II (prohibited); IARC Monograph 71
Typical Use Concentration
Range
N/A
Optimal
N/A
Banned ingredient β no recommended concentration for cosmetic use.
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (II/1391) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
The EU and UK ban acetaldehyde in cosmetics due to its classification as an IARC Group 1 carcinogen (sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in humans). The US and Japan have not instituted a blanket ban but rely on general safety frameworks.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU, UK but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 122 ingredients in the FRAGRANCE category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Found naturally in coffee, bread, and ripe fruits. Produced in the human body as a metabolic intermediate when alcohol is consumed β it's the primary breakdown product of ethanol.
π How It's Made
Industrially produced by the Wacker process: direct oxidation of ethylene using palladium chloride as catalyst. Also produced by oxidation or dehydrogenation of ethanol.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in cosmetic products primarily for fragrance.
π¬ Other Applications
Used in producing acetic acid, pyridines, perfumes, flavoring agents, aniline dyes, plastics, and synthetic rubber. Also used as a food flavoring in small amounts.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Acetaldehyde is the chemical responsible for hangovers β when your body metabolizes alcohol, it produces acetaldehyde, which causes nausea, headache, and flushing
- β’ About 36% of East Asian people have a genetic variant that slows acetaldehyde breakdown, causing the 'Asian flush' or 'Asian glow' when drinking alcohol
- β’ It's classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by IARC, meaning there is sufficient evidence it causes cancer in humans
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database β Annex II/1391
- β’ IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans β Group 1
- β’ FDA cosmetic ingredient database
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA PEEL OIL
CITRUS LIMON PEEL OIL
CITRUS PARADISI PEEL OIL
DIBUTYL PHTHALATE
DIETHYLHEXYL PHTHALATE
LAURUS NOBILIS OIL
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is ACETALDEHYDE banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning ACETALDEHYDE under II/1391 due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is ACETALDEHYDE banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits ACETALDEHYDE (II/1391) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is ACETALDEHYDE used for in cosmetics?
ACETALDEHYDE is primarily used for fragrance in cosmetic products. The ingredient is commonly found in perfumes, colognes, and scented cosmetics.
Which countries regulate ACETALDEHYDE?
ACETALDEHYDE is banned in EU, UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to ACETALDEHYDE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on ACETALDEHYDE, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For fragrance, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.