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Hydroxyacetophenone

Best

Antioxidant

Hydroxyacetophenone at a glance

  • Synthetic antioxidant and humectant in skin care
  • Helps boost preservative systems in many types of formulas
  • Noted for its soothing ability
  • Considered safe as used in cosmetics (final report pending)

Hydroxyacetophenone description

Hydroxyacetophenone is a synthetic antioxidant and skin-conditioning ingredient. The specific antioxidant compound is actually known as p-hydroxyacetophenone, a phenolic antioxidant capable of neutralising several different types of free radicals. Its secondary benefit is boosting the preservation system in cosmetics. This is advantageous because it allows cosmetic chemists to use a lower amount of preservatives (such as phenoxyethanol) without losing efficacy but with the benefit of reducing the risk of an allergic reaction. Hydroxyacetophenone also has soothing ability because it can inhibit an enzyme (known as COX-2) in skin's surface that can lead to signs of irritation.

Related ingredients: Antioxidant

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.