Ingredient
Butylphenyl Methylpropional (Lilial)
What is Butylphenyl Methylpropional (Lilial)?
Butylphenyl Methylpropional, commonly known as Lilial, is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used in a variety of personal care products. It is designed to impart a floral scent and is created through chemical synthesis.
Lilial is primarily used in fragrances for its pleasant floral aroma, and it can be found in products like perfumes and hand sanitizers. However, its safety has been questioned due to concerns about potential health effects, such as skin sensitization.
When you see it on a label, it's important to note that its use is being reduced due to regulatory changes influenced by evolving safety assessments.
Commonly found in: Perfumes, Hand Sanitizers, Lotions, Deodorants, Hair Care Products
What to watch
- May cause skin sensitization, leading to allergic reactions in some individuals.
- Has been classified as a reproductive toxicant in certain regulatory assessments.
The FDA does not have a specific ban on Lilial but takes a cautionary stance due to international regulatory developments.
Research indicates potential risks, especially concerning skin sensitization and reproductive toxicity, leading to varied regulatory responses.
Lilial is synthetic and not derived from animals, so it is typically considered vegan.
The EFSA has raised concerns about its safety, contributing to phased-out usage in the EU by 2022.
Scout's take
BANNED in EU cosmetics since March 2022 as a CMR (Carcinogen / Mutagen / Reproductive toxin, Category 1B) under EU Regulation 2021/1902. Animal studies showed reproductive toxicity. Still legal and used in US-market designer fragrances. Single most concerning ingredient in any modern leave-on cosmetic.
More from Scout's analyses
Synthetic fragrance ingredient classified as a CMR (Carcinogenic, Mutagenic, or toxic for Reproduction) substance and banned from cosmetics in the EU since March 2022. Still permitted in the US.
from the analysis of Bath & Body Works PocketBac Japanese Cherry Blossom Hand SanitizerFound in 5 products
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