Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams
Formula IngredientpH AdjusterINCI: Aminomethyl Propanol
Aminomethyl propanol (also known as 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol or AMP) is a synthetic alkaline compound used in cosmetics primarily as a pH adjuster and buffering agent. It raises the pH of formulations to the optimal range required for efficacy and stability, and is commonly found in leave-on and rinse-off products including serums, gels, styling products, and mascaras. In the EU it is regulated under Annex III of the Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 due to nitrosamine formation concerns.
Category
pH Adjuster
Irritation Risk
Low
Skin Types
all skin types, oily, dry, combination, sensitive, acne-prone
pH regulation, formula stabilisation, improved shelf life, reduced product tackiness
At typical cosmetic use concentrations (below 2%), aminomethyl propanol is minimally irritating to skin. Primary irritation studies found it was at most mildly irritating at higher concentrations. Concentrations above 5% can cause skin irritation, itching, and redness. The CIR Expert Panel concluded it is safe at concentrations up to 7%. EU Annex III restricts use: purity must be at least 99%, secondary amine content must not exceed 0.5%, and nitrosamine content must not exceed 50 µg/kg. It should not be used in formulations containing nitrosating agents due to potential carcinogenic nitrosamine formation.
Aminomethyl propanol does not increase photosensitivity. No sun protection precautions are required based on its presence in a formulation.
Limited human pregnancy data is available. Animal reproductive toxicity studies (using the related compound tromethamine) showed no adverse effects on fertility, gestation, or offspring at high doses (NOAEL ≥ 1000 mg/kg/d in rats). Dermal exposure at typical cosmetic concentrations is unlikely to result in toxicologically significant systemic levels. Low-risk at normal use concentrations, but limited evidence means a cautious classification is appropriate. Consult a healthcare provider if concerned. (Sources: CIR safety assessment; Motherfigure; PubMed PMID 19966147.)
Aminomethyl propanol (also known as 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol or AMP) is a synthetic alkaline compound used in cosmetics primarily as a pH adjuster and buffering agent. It raises the pH of formulations to the optimal range required for efficacy and stability, and is commonly found in leave-on and rinse-off products including serums, gels, styling products, and mascaras. In the EU it is regulated under Annex III of the Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 due to nitrosamine formation concerns.
Individuals with MANUAL REVIEW: formulators should avoid using in products containing nitrosating agents due to nitrosamine formation risk should review the considerations above before use.
Shop products that contain Aminomethyl Propanol