HYDROXYCITRONELLAL
Also known as: 7-hydroxy-3,7-dimethyloctanal, 7-hydroxycitronellal, Hydroxycitronellal
Overview
Hydroxycitronellal is a synthetic aromatic aldehyde primarily used as a fragrance ingredient in perfumes, personal care products, soaps, and detergents. It is chemically derived from citronellal, a component found in citronella oil, and is valued for its sweet, fresh floral scent, reminiscent of lily of the valley. Unlike many other compounds, hydroxycitronellal is not naturally abundant and is not classified as a dietary supplement or nutraceutical. Its application is strictly limited to providing scent, and it does not offer any nutritional or therapeutic benefits. Research concerning hydroxycitronellal focuses almost exclusively on its safety profile, particularly its potential for allergenicity and general toxicology, rather than any health-related effects or supplementation uses. Regulatory bodies like the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) and the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) conduct safety assessments based on toxicological studies and patch testing.
Benefits
Hydroxycitronellal is not used as a dietary supplement and has no documented nutritional, therapeutic, or health benefits. Its sole function is to impart a fragrance. Therefore, there is no evidence-based research supporting any health-related benefits for this compound. All available research and regulatory assessments are focused on its safety as a fragrance ingredient, particularly its potential to cause allergic reactions, rather than any positive physiological effects.
How it works
Hydroxycitronellal functions as a fragrance by interacting with olfactory receptors in the nose, which are specialized sensory neurons responsible for detecting odors. When inhaled, the volatile molecules of hydroxycitronellal bind to these receptors, triggering a signal that is sent to the brain, where it is interpreted as a specific scent—in this case, a sweet, floral aroma. This mechanism is purely sensory and does not involve any systemic biological pathways or interactions with body systems that would confer therapeutic or nutritional effects. It does not act on metabolic pathways, cellular functions, or organ systems in a way that would be relevant for a supplement.
Side effects
Hydroxycitronellal is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and fragrances when concentrations are kept within regulated limits. However, it is a known fragrance allergen and can cause adverse reactions in susceptible individuals. The most common side effect is allergic contact dermatitis or skin sensitization, which can manifest as redness, itching, rash, or swelling, especially with prolonged or repeated exposure. In rare cases, individuals sensitive to fragrances may experience respiratory irritation if exposed to high concentrations. While severe allergic reactions are uncommon, they are possible. There are no reported drug interactions with hydroxycitronellal. It is contraindicated for individuals with known fragrance allergies or sensitivities. Caution is advised for people with pre-existing skin conditions such as eczema or generally sensitive skin, as they may be more prone to developing skin irritation or sensitization.
Dosage
Dosage guidelines for hydroxycitronellal are not applicable as it is not intended for ingestion or use as a dietary supplement. Its use is strictly limited to external application as a fragrance ingredient in various consumer products. The concentrations of hydroxycitronellal in these products are meticulously regulated by industry bodies such as the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) to minimize the risk of skin sensitization and other adverse reactions. These regulations ensure that the levels used are safe for topical application within the cosmetic and personal care industry. There are no recommended intake levels, timing considerations, or upper limits for oral consumption, as it is not meant to be consumed.
FAQs
Is hydroxycitronellal a dietary supplement?
No, hydroxycitronellal is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used in perfumes and cosmetics. It is not intended for ingestion and has no nutritional or therapeutic benefits.
Can hydroxycitronellal cause allergic reactions?
Yes, it is a known fragrance allergen. It can cause allergic contact dermatitis or skin sensitization in susceptible individuals, leading to redness, itching, or rash.
Is it safe to use in cosmetics?
Yes, when used within regulatory limits set by organizations like IFRA, hydroxycitronellal is considered safe for cosmetic applications, though sensitization is a risk for some.
Does hydroxycitronellal have health benefits?
No, there is no scientific evidence to support any health, nutritional, or therapeutic benefits for hydroxycitronellal. Its sole purpose is to provide a scent.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3010674/ – This source likely discusses the safety assessment of fragrance ingredients, potentially including hydroxycitronellal, in the context of consumer products. It would focus on toxicological data and regulatory considerations for safe use.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21197150/ – This PubMed entry probably relates to studies on fragrance allergens and their impact on human health, specifically skin sensitization. It would contribute to understanding the allergenic potential of compounds like hydroxycitronellal.
- https://www.livar.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/1-5.pdf – This PDF document might be a technical report or a review on the safety profile of specific fragrance chemicals. It could provide detailed toxicological data and risk assessments relevant to hydroxycitronellal's use in consumer products.
- https://liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/ars.2023.0254 – This source from Liebertpub likely covers research on environmental or health impacts of various chemicals, possibly including fragrance compounds. It could offer insights into broader safety considerations or regulatory frameworks for such substances.
- https://mjas.analis.com.my/mjas/v27_n1/pdf/Mahtar_27_1_13.pdf – This document from a scientific journal may present research on chemical analysis or safety evaluations of compounds used in industries like cosmetics. It could provide data on the presence or effects of fragrance ingredients in consumer products.
