The Clean Sheet
Ingredient Directory
Low ConcernVegan

Honokiol

3',5-Diallyl-2,4'-biphenyldiol

Safety Notes

Neolignan isomer of magnolol from magnolia bark with antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Common in clean-preservation systems and soothing serums, usually paired with magnolol.

Function & Common Use

Function

Antimicrobial / Antioxidant / Skin conditioning

Category

Preservative / Antimicrobial

Common In

Natural preservative blends, anti-blemish and soothing skincare, oral care

Origin

Natural (from Magnolia officinalis bark)

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No specific limit under CR 2020 in source checked

EU Cosmetics Reg.

No specific limit; use at self-determined safe level per safety assessment

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked

Korea (MFDS)

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 Honokiol safe to use in skincare?

Honokiol has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Neolignan isomer of magnolol from magnolia bark with antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Common in clean-preservation systems and soothing serums, usually paired with magnolol.

Is Honokiol allowed in India?

Honokiol 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 Honokiol used for in cosmetics?

Honokiol functions as: Antimicrobial / Antioxidant / Skin conditioning. It is commonly found in: Natural preservative blends, anti-blemish and soothing skincare, oral care.

Is Honokiol safe for babies?

Honokiol 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.

TCS Assessment
Low Concern
Data Confidence
Medium
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted; regulated as a cosmetic ingredient under CR 2020
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted; no specific 21 CFR cosmetic restriction identified in source checked
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted; no specific MFDS restriction identified in source checked
Australia (TGA)
Cosmetic ingredient under AICIS; standard framework applies; no therapeutic listing unless therapeutic claims made
Canada (NHPID)
Not listed as restricted on Health Canada Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist in source checked; standard cosmetic notification applies

Identifiers

CAS35354-74-6
EC252-500-5

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