EUGENOL
Commonly Found In
Overview
Eugenol is the major phenylpropanoid component of clove bud oil (80β95%) and is widely used as a fragrance ingredient in spicy, oriental, and floral-type perfumes. It is a mandatory EU labeling allergen in cosmetics above 0.001% in leave-on products (Annex III/71). Studies report sensitization rates of approximately 1β3% in the general population, making it one of the higher-allergenicity fragrance ingredients among the 26 EU-regulated allergens. Eugenol has a long history in dentistry as a local anesthetic and antiseptic active. It is permitted in the US and Japan for cosmetic use without specific labeling requirements.
Also known as: Eugenol, 4-Allyl-2-methoxyphenol, Clove Oil (main component), 1-Allyl-4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzene
Key Benefits
Studies suggest eugenol may contribute antimicrobial and mild anti-inflammatory properties; its primary role in cosmetics is as a fragrance ingredient rather than a direct skin treatment, and its dental anesthetic/antiseptic properties are well-documented.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; phenolic fragrance compound used at trace concentrations.
Source: SCCS/1513/13
Irritancy Rating
Sensitization rate approximately 1β3% in general population; one of the higher-allergenicity EU-regulated fragrance ingredients; dental workers and fragrance-allergic individuals show elevated rates; direct application may cause irritation
Source: EU SCCS fragrance allergen opinions; CIR Expert Panel; dental literature
Typical Use Concentration
Range
0.001β1%
Optimal
0.01β0.3% in fragrance blends
EU mandatory labeling above 0.001% (leave-on) / 0.01% (rinse-off). IFRA limits apply. Dental use is separate from cosmetic fragrance use.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Use With Caution
EU mandatory label disclosure (Annex III/71) above 0.001% in leave-on products. One of the more allergenic EU-regulated fragrance ingredients by sensitization incidence. IFRA provides concentration limits by product category.
Commonly Found In
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 | Restricted | - | Follows EU regulations (III/71) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
The EU requires mandatory label disclosure of eugenol (Annex III/71) as part of the 26 fragrance allergen labeling regime; it is not prohibited outright. The 'banned' database status reflects the Annex III restricted classification. The US and Japan do not require specific eugenol labeling in cosmetics. IFRA provides voluntary concentration guidance.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 11 ingredients in the DENATURANT category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Major component of clove bud oil (80-95%), clove leaf oil (82-88%), and clove stem oil (90-95%). Also found in cinnamon leaf (70-85%), bay leaf (up to 60%), allspice (60-80%), basil (up to 20%), and nutmeg. Clove oil is the primary commercial source.
π How It's Made
Extracted from clove oil through steam distillation or vacuum distillation. Synthetically produced from guaiacol (derived from guaiacum resin or lignin) through alkylation with allyl chloride, or from vanillin. Most commercial eugenol is naturally derived from clove oil due to abundance and cost-effectiveness.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used as fragrance component in spicy, oriental, and carnation-type perfumes at 0.01-1% concentration. Provides warm, spicy, clove-like aroma. Functions as denaturant in alcohol-based products. EU Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 Annex III/71 requires labeling above 0.001% (leave-on) or 0.01% (rinse-off). Also has tonic properties.
π¬ Other Applications
Approved food flavoring (FDA safety approval). Widely used in dentistry as local anesthetic and antiseptic in temporary fillings and root canal treatments. Has demonstrated antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. Used in tobacco flavoring, household products, and as a precursor to vanillin production. Antioxidant in food preservation.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ One of 26 EU mandatory-labeling fragrance allergens since 2003, listed in Annex III/71.
- β’ Used in dentistry since the 19th century for its anesthetic and antiseptic propertiesβthe distinctive 'dentist office smell'.
- β’ Has relatively high allergy rate (1-3% in general population, higher in dental workers and fragrance-allergic individuals).
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database (Annex III/71)
- β’ SCCS fragrance allergen opinions
- β’ CIR Expert Panel β eugenol safety assessment
- β’ IFRA Standards
- β’ Dental literature on eugenol anesthetic/antiseptic properties
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
CINNAMAL
GERANIOL
ABIES ALBA CONE EXTRACT
AMMONIUM HYDROXIDE
BENZYL ALCOHOL
CEDRUS ATLANTICA BARK OIL
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is EUGENOL banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning EUGENOL under III/71 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 EUGENOL banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits EUGENOL (III/71) 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 EUGENOL used for in cosmetics?
EUGENOL is primarily used for denaturant in cosmetic products. It also serves as perfuming, tonic. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate EUGENOL?
EUGENOL is banned in EU. It has concentration limits or usage restrictions in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to EUGENOL?
Due to regulatory restrictions on EUGENOL, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For denaturant, 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.