The Clean Sheet
Ingredient Directory
Low ConcernVegan

Totarol

(4aS,10aS)-Totara-8,11,13-trien-13-ol (diterpenoid phenol)

Safety Notes

Diterpenoid phenol from totara wood with strong antibacterial (especially anti-acne) and antioxidant activity, used at very low levels as a natural antimicrobial booster.

Function & Common Use

Function

Antimicrobial / Antioxidant / Preservative booster

Category

Preservative / Antimicrobial

Common In

Anti-blemish skincare, natural preservative blends, oral care

Origin

Natural (from Podocarpus totara heartwood)

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 Totarol safe to use in skincare?

Totarol has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Diterpenoid phenol from totara wood with strong antibacterial (especially anti-acne) and antioxidant activity, used at very low levels as a natural antimicrobial booster.

Is Totarol allowed in India?

Totarol 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 Totarol used for in cosmetics?

Totarol functions as: Antimicrobial / Antioxidant / Preservative booster. It is commonly found in: Anti-blemish skincare, natural preservative blends, oral care.

Is Totarol safe for babies?

Totarol 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

CAS511-15-9

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