Hinokitiol
beta-Thujaplicin (2-hydroxy-4-isopropyl-2,4,6-cycloheptatrien-1-one)
Naturally occurring tropolone with broad antimicrobial and antifungal activity, plus a chelating action on metal ions. Used at very low levels (roughly 0.01-0.1%). Effective in J-beauty and clean-preservation systems. Some cytotoxicity and metal-chelation data warrant conservative use levels; review supplier safety dossier.
Function & Common Use
Antimicrobial / Preservative / Skin conditioning
Preservative / Antimicrobial
Scalp and acne treatments, deodorants, natural preservative blends, oral care
Natural (from Chamaecyparis taiwanensis / hinoki cypress) or synthetic
Concentration Limits
No specific limit under CR 2020 in source checked
No specific limit; use at self-determined safe level per safety assessment
No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked
No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked
Baby restriction: None identified for standard cosmetic use
Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hinokitiol safe to use in skincare?
Hinokitiol has a Medium concern rating. Naturally occurring tropolone with broad antimicrobial and antifungal activity, plus a chelating action on metal ions. Used at very low levels (roughly 0.01-0.1%). Effective in J-beauty and clean-preservation systems. Some cytotoxicity and metal-chelation data warrant conservative use levels; review supplier safety dossier.
Is Hinokitiol allowed in India?
Hinokitiol is currently classified as "Permitted; regulated as a cosmetic ingredient under CR 2020" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No specific limit under CR 2020 in source checked.
What is Hinokitiol used for in cosmetics?
Hinokitiol functions as: Antimicrobial / Preservative / Skin conditioning. It is commonly found in: Scalp and acne treatments, deodorants, natural preservative blends, oral care.
Is Hinokitiol safe for babies?
Hinokitiol has baby/child restrictions: None identified for standard cosmetic use. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
Permitted; regulated as a cosmetic ingredient under CR 2020
Permitted; no specific 21 CFR cosmetic restriction identified in source checked
Permitted; no specific MFDS restriction identified in source checked
Cosmetic ingredient under AICIS; standard framework applies; no therapeutic listing unless therapeutic claims made
Not listed as restricted on Health Canada Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist in source checked; standard cosmetic notification applies
Identifiers
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Reviewed by The Clean Sheet, with our verdict.