Ingredient review
4-Dimethylmethylenecyclohexyl Butan-2-one
INCI: 4-DIMETHYLMETHYLENECYCLOHEXYL-BUTAN-2-ONE
A synthetic scent ingredient that adds fragrance but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
In plain English
This ingredient is a man-made chemical added to give products a pleasant smell, often described as fresh or woody. It doesn't do anything for your skin's health—it's purely for fragrance. Because it's a fragrance ingredient, it can sometimes cause irritation or allergic reactions, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
4-Dimethylmethylenecyclohexyl Butan-2-one can be useful, but watch for some irritation potential.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging 4-Dimethylmethylenecyclohexyl Butan-2-one.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
moderateCan bother some users, especially with frequent use, damaged skin, or strong companion ingredients.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic organic compound belonging to the ketone family, used specifically as a fragrance ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products.
How it works
It works by evaporating from the skin's surface, releasing scent molecules that are detected by your nose. In a product, it simply contributes to the overall fragrance profile and has no active skincare function.
Pros
Pleasant scent
Adds a fresh, woody, or floral note that many people find appealing in their skincare routine.
Low comedogenic risk
Unlikely to clog pores, making it suitable for most skin types in terms of acne risk.
Cons and cautions
Potential irritant
As a synthetic fragrance, it can cause redness, itching, or stinging, especially on sensitive or compromised skin.
No skincare benefit
Provides only scent, with no moisturizing, antioxidant, or other active skincare properties.
Best for
- People who enjoy scented skincare and have no history of fragrance allergies
- Those looking for a fresh, woody fragrance note in their products
Use caution if
- Individuals with sensitive, reactive, or eczema-prone skin
- Anyone with a known allergy to synthetic fragrances
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally considered safe for most people at low concentrations used in cosmetics, but can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar fragrance ketones and found them safe when formulated to be non-irritating.
Research notes
Limited peer-reviewed studies specifically on this compound, but fragrance ingredients as a class are well-studied for allergenicity. The EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has reviewed related fragrance materials and established safe use levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at very low levels, often less than 1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU and US, but must be listed on the label if it is a known allergen above certain thresholds (e.g., EU CosIng).
- Common uses
- Fragranced skincare, Perfumes, Body lotions, Cleansers
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, its environmental persistence and bioaccumulation potential are not well-documented; natural fragrance alternatives may have a lower environmental footprint.
Good to know
- Fragrance ingredients like this one are often listed simply as 'fragrance' or 'parfum' on labels, so you may not see the full chemical name.
- Regulations require listing specific fragrance allergens if they exceed certain levels, but this ingredient may not always be individually declared.
Common questions
What is 4-Dimethylmethylenecyclohexyl Butan-2-one in beauty products?
This ingredient is a man-made chemical added to give products a pleasant smell, often described as fresh or woody. It doesn't do anything for your skin's health—it's purely for fragrance. Because it's a fragrance ingredient, it can sometimes cause irritation or allergic reactions, especially if you have sensitive skin.
What does 4-Dimethylmethylenecyclohexyl Butan-2-one do in a beauty product?
It works by evaporating from the skin's surface, releasing scent molecules that are detected by your nose. In a product, it simply contributes to the overall fragrance profile and has no active skincare function.
Is 4-Dimethylmethylenecyclohexyl Butan-2-one safe for most people?
Generally considered safe for most people at low concentrations used in cosmetics, but can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar fragrance ketones and found them safe when formulated to be non-irritating.
Who should be careful with 4-Dimethylmethylenecyclohexyl Butan-2-one?
Individuals with sensitive, reactive, or eczema-prone skin Anyone with a known allergy to synthetic fragrances
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.