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be sonatural, Face masks, read from the back

Hydroxyacetophenone

Well toleratedAntioxidantantioxidantpreservative boostersoothing

No meaningful concern for most people; irritation is possible but rare.

Also written as: 4-Hydroxyacetophenone · Piceol

What it is

Hydroxyacetophenone is a small phenolic ketone found naturally in spruce and some fruits. In cosmetics it is used as an antioxidant that protects the formula from oxidative breakdown, and it enhances the performance of preservatives such as phenoxyethanol. Some suppliers also promote it as a soothing ingredient. It is not an EU-listed preservative.

What it does well

  • Stabilises the formula and supports the preservative system

    Its antioxidant action protects sensitive ingredients from oxidation while allowing lower preservative levels. Most of the supporting data comes from supplier studies rather than independent trials.

    Limited evidence

Worth knowing

  • Little independent clinical data

    Reports of irritation or allergy are essentially absent, but so is large-scale independent testing.

    Matters most toNobody in particular; noted for completeness.

Where the EU stands

No specific restriction

Not listed in Annex V and not otherwise restricted in EU cosmetics.

Masks that contain Hydroxyacetophenone