Fragrance
EPOXYGUAIENE
Safety score · 0–100
Moderate
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
A sesquiterpene epoxide — epoxides are intrinsically alkylating. Use-level caution for leave-on cosmetics given the reactive functional group.
Epoxyguaiene (CAS 68071-23-8) is a sesquiterpene with an epoxide functional group, used in perfumery for woody-amber notes. Epoxides are small, strained three-membered oxygen rings that are inherently electrophilic and can alkylate nucleophilic skin proteins and, in principle, DNA — this is why the epoxide class is generally treated with caution in cosmetic chemistry. Specific toxicology data for this structure is limited publicly. RIFM/IFRA manage this type of ingredient at conservative percentages. The orange placement reflects structural-class reactivity concerns balanced against absence of a specific hazard classification for the compound.
Function
Skin benefits
- Woody-amber fragrance note
Known concerns
- Epoxide — alkylating/reactive functional group
- Structural-class genotoxicity concern
- Limited public data
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related fragrances
Check your shelf
Find EPOXYGUAIENE in your products.
Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains EPOXYGUAIENE and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.
This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.