Exfoliant
MYRISTICA FRAGRANS SHELL POWDER
Safety score · 0–100
Fine
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Powdered nutmeg shell (mace) used as a natural exfoliant. Nutmeg family ingredients carry trace myristicin and safrole — small cosmetic amounts are OK.
Myristica Fragrans Shell Powder is derived from the shell (aril/mace) of nutmeg fruits. Nutmeg is famous for its characteristic warm aroma, provided by myristicin, safrole, methyl eugenol, elemicin, and other alkenylbenzenes and phenylpropanoids. Several of these are on IFRA restricted lists or SCCS concern lists at elevated use levels — methyl eugenol and safrole specifically are regulated in cosmetics at trace ppm limits because of genotoxicity data. In a shell powder, free volatile content is much lower than in the essential oil, but still non-zero. Cosmetic use as a scrub exfoliant is at 1-10%. Eye-area avoidance recommended. Food-safe parent material.
Function
Skin benefits
- Nutmeg shell (mace) powder — natural exfoliant
- Contains volatile oils and flavonoids
- Sustainable byproduct of nutmeg processing
- Warm-scent natural positioning
Known concerns
- Myristicin trace content — neurotoxic alkenylbenzene at high oral doses
- Safrole/methyl eugenol trace possible — both on restricted fragrance lists
- Fragrance-allergen content
- Particulate exfoliant — avoid eye area
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related exfoliants
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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.