On 13 September 2024, the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer) published Volume 134 of its Monographs, with the results of its evaluation of the carcinogenicity of Methyl Eugenol and Isoeugenol, two fragrance ingredients commonly used in cosmetics.
This evaluation was finalised by a group of 25 scientists from 12 countries at a meeting held at the Agency’s headquarters in Lyon in June 2023.
It is now published in Volume 134 of the IARC Monographs.
Methyl Eugenol
Methyl Eugenol (CAS No.93-15-2, EC No.202-223-0) is a flavour and fragrance compound occurring naturally in essential oils of various plants. It’s a cosmetic ingredient listed in the CosIng with the functions: Fragrance, Perfuming.
It is regulated under Annex III/102 to the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 which sets maximum concentrations for different product categories.
The IARC Working Group classified Methyl Eugenol as “probably carcinogenic to humans” (Group 2A), on the basis of sufficient evidence for cancer in experimental animals, strong mechanistic evidence in experimental systems, and inadequate evidence regarding cancer in humans.
Isoeugenol
Isoeugenol (CAS No.n°97-54-1, EC No.202-590-7) is a fragrance and flavour compound that occurs in many plant species and in wood smoke. It’s a cosmetic ingredient listed in the CosIng with the functions: Perfuming, Flavouring.
It is regulated under Annex III/73 to the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 and is subject to compulsory labelling in the list of ingredients as soon as its concentration in the formula exceeds 0.001% in …
