Ingredient review
Hydroxycitronellal Methyl Anthranilate
INCI: HYDROXYCITRONELLAL METHYL ANTHRANILATE
A synthetic floral scent ingredient that is generally safe but can be a skin sensitizer for some people.
In plain English
This is a man-made chemical that smells like flowers and citrus. It's added to products to make them smell nice. While it's considered safe in small amounts, it can cause allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Main practical flags: irritation is moderate; clogging risk is low.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- moderate
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Hydroxycitronellal Methyl Anthranilate 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 Hydroxycitronellal Methyl Anthranilate.
- 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
Hydroxycitronellal Methyl Anthranilate is a synthetic fragrance compound created in a lab. It combines two other fragrance chemicals to produce a sweet, floral, and slightly citrusy scent often used in perfumes and scented cosmetics.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, this ingredient simply provides a pleasant scent. It does not have any active skincare benefits like moisturizing or exfoliating. Its role is purely aesthetic, to improve the user's sensory experience.
Pros
Pleasant Scent
Adds a sweet, floral-citrus aroma that many people find appealing, improving the user experience.
Low Comedogenic Risk
Unlikely to clog pores, making it suitable for most skin types in terms of acne risk.
Cons and cautions
Potential Allergen
Can cause skin irritation or allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals, especially with repeated use.
No Skincare Benefit
Provides no active skincare benefits like hydration, anti-aging, or protection; it is purely for scent.
Best for
- People who enjoy scented products and have no history of fragrance allergies
- Those looking for a long-lasting floral scent in their cosmetics
Use caution if
- Individuals with known fragrance allergies or sensitive skin
- Anyone who prefers fragrance-free or hypoallergenic products
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for most people at low concentrations, but it is a known skin sensitizer. The EU requires it to be listed on labels due to allergy concerns. Avoid if you have a history of fragrance allergies.
Research notes
Research shows that Hydroxycitronellal Methyl Anthranilate can cause allergic contact dermatitis in sensitized individuals. It is one of many fragrance allergens monitored by regulatory bodies. No evidence of carcinogenicity or systemic toxicity at cosmetic use levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at very low levels, often below 1% in leave-on products.
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US and EU, but must be listed on the label if present above certain levels due to its allergenic potential.
- Common uses
- Perfumes, Body lotions, Cleansers, Hair products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, it is not biodegradable and may accumulate in the environment, though its low usage concentration limits impact.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed near the end of an ingredient list, indicating it is used in low concentrations.
- It is a common allergen that must be listed separately on product labels in the EU and other regions.
Common questions
What is Hydroxycitronellal Methyl Anthranilate in beauty products?
This is a man-made chemical that smells like flowers and citrus. It's added to products to make them smell nice. While it's considered safe in small amounts, it can cause allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies.
What does Hydroxycitronellal Methyl Anthranilate do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, this ingredient simply provides a pleasant scent. It does not have any active skincare benefits like moisturizing or exfoliating. Its role is purely aesthetic, to improve the user's sensory experience.
Is Hydroxycitronellal Methyl Anthranilate safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for most people at low concentrations, but it is a known skin sensitizer. The EU requires it to be listed on labels due to allergy concerns. Avoid if you have a history of fragrance allergies.
Who should be careful with Hydroxycitronellal Methyl Anthranilate?
Individuals with known fragrance allergies or sensitive skin Anyone who prefers fragrance-free or hypoallergenic products
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.