Shikimic Acid

INCI: SHIKIMIC ACID

CAS Number
138-59-0
Function
Exfoliant (gentle AHA), antioxidant, skin brightening, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, deodorant
Safety Rating
GOOD

Regulatory Status

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡บ EU Status permitted
๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ US Status permitted
US Notes Permitted for cosmetic use; no specific restrictions

For full compliance data across 55 jurisdictions, use the Substance Compliance tool.

Safety Data

Margin of Safety (MoS)
adequate
Dermal Absorption
moderate
Sensitization
low

Calculate MoS for your specific formulation with the MoS Calculator.

Expert Verdict

As an AHA, can increase photosensitivity โ€” formulations should pair with SPF; pH-dependent efficacy and irritation potential

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Concern Level: Moderate

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Shikimic Acid safe in cosmetics?

As an AHA, can increase photosensitivity โ€” formulations should pair with SPF; pH-dependent efficacy and irritation potential The EU classifies Shikimic Acid as "permitted". Safety rating: GOOD.

Is Shikimic Acid allowed in the EU?

Shikimic Acid EU regulatory status: permitted. This is based on EU Regulation 1223/2009 and its amendments.

What does Shikimic Acid do in cosmetics?

Shikimic Acid functions as: Exfoliant (gentle AHA), antioxidant, skin brightening, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, deodorant. It is classified as a cosmetic ingredient in our database. CAS number: 138-59-0.

What is the Margin of Safety for Shikimic Acid?

adequate The Margin of Safety (MoS) is calculated using SCCS methodology. A MoS above 100 is generally considered safe. Use the MoS Calculator tool to calculate MoS for your specific formulation and product category.

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