Dehydroacetic Acid
DHA (3-Acetyl-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2,4(3H)-dione)
Often combined with benzyl alcohol as a mild preservative system; widely used in natural/organic formulations; good broad-spectrum efficacy at low concentrations
Function & Common Use
Preservative
Preservative
Natural-positioned formulations leave-on and rinse-off
Synthetic
Concentration Limits
No formal limit
EU Annex V: max 0.6% as acid
No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked; EU limit reference: No
No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category
Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dehydroacetic Acid safe to use in skincare?
Dehydroacetic Acid has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Often combined with benzyl alcohol as a mild preservative system; widely used in natural/organic formulations; good broad-spectrum efficacy at low concentrations
Is Dehydroacetic Acid allowed in India?
Dehydroacetic Acid is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No formal limit.
What is Dehydroacetic Acid used for in cosmetics?
Dehydroacetic Acid functions as: Preservative. It is commonly found in: Natural-positioned formulations leave-on and rinse-off.
Regulatory Status
Cosmetic preservative; TGA cosmetic use acceptable; ensure compliance with Therapeutic Goods (Cosmetics) Rules 2020 if therapeutic claims are made
Preservative; Health Canada cosmetic ingredient use; no specific NHPID restriction identified in source checked unless therapeutic claims are made
EU Annex: EU Annex V
Identifiers
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