Hydroxycitronellal
Hydroxycitronellal
- Role
- A scent molecule that is part of the fragrance.
- Catalog formulas
- 6
- Type
- Scent
- Verified
- 06.11.2026
What does this ingredient do in an antiperspirant?
Contributes to the scent of the blend. Unlike most fragrance allergens, it has a concentration limit in addition to the labelling requirement.
Part of a system, not a label in isolation
In an antiperspirant or deodorant it only contributes to the scent and does not reduce sweating. Its presence in the list means the product is fragranced.
In the EU it is on the list of fragrance allergens (Regulation 1223/2009, Annex III, entry 72): it must be named separately in the ingredient list above 0.001% in leave-on and 0.01% in rinse-off products. In addition, its concentration in cosmetics (other than oral products) is limited to 1.0%.
The 2012 SCCS opinion lists it as an established contact allergen in humans, with 101 to 1,000 positive patch-test reactions reported, which places it among the allergens of special concern.
Not citronellol (Citronellol) or hydroxycitronellol: despite the similar names, these are different substances.
Products containing Hydroxycitronellal
Links are based on the complete published INCI list for the exact product version.
Sources
The conclusions apply to the stated conditions and jurisdictions, not automatically to every concentration or product.
- CosIng Checker: Annex III, entry 72 (Hydroxycitronellal) Supports: restrictions, allergen labelling, maximum concentration
- SCCS/1459/11: Opinion on fragrance allergens in cosmetic products Supports: allergenicity assessment