Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams
Formula IngredientPreservativeDehydroacetic Acid
INCI: Dehydroacetic Acid
Dehydroacetic acid is a synthetic preservative (chemical name: 3-acetyl-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2,4(3H)-dione) used in cosmetic formulations to prevent microbial contamination. It works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mould, extending a product's shelf life and maintaining formula stability. It is Ecocert and Cosmos approved, making it popular in natural and organic formulations.
Category
Preservative
Irritation Risk
Low
Skin Types
all skin types, sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, natural/organic product users
What does this do in a formula?
broad-spectrum antimicrobial, antifungal, extends product shelf life, maintains formula stability, effective at low concentrations
Is Dehydroacetic Acid safe? Key considerations
Can Dehydroacetic Acid cause irritation?
Low RiskThe CIR Expert Panel found dehydroacetic acid to be practically non-irritating, non-sensitising, non-photosensitising, and non-phototoxic in clinical testing. Rare cases of allergic contact dermatitis have been reported. Individuals with sensitive or preservative-reactive skin should patch test. It is restricted under EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex V (entry V/13) at a maximum concentration of 0.6% (expressed as the acid); prohibited in aerosol dispensers.
Does Dehydroacetic Acid increase sun sensitivity?
No RiskDehydroacetic acid is not a photosensitising ingredient. Clinical testing confirmed it is non-photosensitising and non-phototoxic. No additional sun protection precautions are required due to its presence in a formulation.
Is Dehydroacetic Acid safe during pregnancy?
CautionLimited pregnancy-specific data is available. A teratogenicity study in mice showed no significant adverse effects, and no mutagenic or tumour-inducing evidence was found (CIR assessment). Motherfigure classifies it as 'limited data suggests no known risk'. At cosmetic concentrations (≤0.6%), topical exposure is considered low risk, but as a precaution, consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended.
How does Dehydroacetic Acid work?
Dehydroacetic acid is a synthetic preservative (chemical name: 3-acetyl-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2,4(3H)-dione) used in cosmetic formulations to prevent microbial contamination. It works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mould, extending a product's shelf life and maintaining formula stability. It is Ecocert and Cosmos approved, making it popular in natural and organic formulations.
Individuals with known preservative sensitivity, allergy to dehydroacetic acid or sodium dehydroacetate should review the considerations above before use.
Which products contain Dehydroacetic Acid?
Shop products that contain Dehydroacetic Acid
Supersize Salicylic Acid Cleanser
15% Vitamin C + EGF Serum
Salicylic Acid Cleanser
1% Retinol Serum
PHA Body Water Cream
Succinic Acid Treatment
Brighten-i Eye Cream
Peptide Moisturiser
Retinol Eye Cream
Blemish Clearing Moisturiser with 2% Novoretin
Vitamin B, C and E Moisturiser
Fulvic Acid Cleanser
Tranexamic Acid Serum
20% Niacinamide Serum
10% Urea Moisturiser
Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG Eye Serum
Multi-Peptide Eye Serum
Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion
