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Prohibited nitromusk fragrance

5-tert-Butyl-2,4,6-trinitro-m-xylene

CAS 81-15-2
5

Safety score · 0–100

Avoid

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

Musk xylene is a synthetic fragrance once common in perfumes and now banned across the EU. It builds up in body fat and the environment, and is suspected to cause long term harm.

Skin benefits

  • Historically used as a musk xylene fragrance ingredient before being prohibited
  • Provided long-lasting scent character in older perfume formulations

Known concerns

  • Banned in EU cosmetics (Annex II) as musk xylene
  • Classified as persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) and very persistent very bioaccumulative (vPvB)
  • Suspected carcinogen with possible endocrine effects
  • Accumulates in human adipose tissue and breast milk

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

Check your shelf

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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.