Skip to content

Other

oxymetazoline

CAS 1491-59-4
25

Safety score · 0–100

Caution

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

About

Oxymetazoline is a cosmetic ingredient used in product formulations. Exercise caution due to limited available safety data.

Oxymetazoline is an imidazoline derivative acting as a selective alpha-1 and alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. At low concentrations (0.01-0.1%) it is approved as a nasal decongestant and has been used in ophthalmic products. At higher concentrations it causes significant vasoconstriction and systemic effects including hypertension, tachycardia, and CNS effects. The margin of safety for cosmetic skin use is considered insufficient, and it is not a recognized cosmetic ingredient in the EU.

Known concerns

  • Alpha-adrenergic drug — not permitted in EU cosmetics
  • Cardiovascular effects including hypertension and tachycardia
  • CNS effects at elevated exposure
  • Rhinitis medicamentosa with rebound congestion on discontinuation

References

EU

EU CosIng database

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

Related others

25
(4-Phenylbutyl)phosphinic acid
Other
 25
2,2'-METHYLENEBIS 4-AMINOPHENOL
Other
 25
2-AMINO-4-NITROPHENOL SULFATE
Other
 25
2-Benzyl-2-dimethylamino-4'- morpholinobutyrophenone
Other
 25
3-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-p- phenylenediammonium sulphate
Other
 25
4,6-BIS(2-HYDROXYETHOXY)-M-PHENYLENEDIAMINE
Other
 25
4-Ethoxy-m-phenylenediamine and its salts
Other
 25
4-NITRO-O-PHENYLENEDIAMINE
Other

Check your shelf

Find oxymetazoline in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains oxymetazoline 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.