Quick Search
Dehydroacetic acid can be recommended to use as preservative in cosmetic products.
Dehydroacetic acid, often abbreviated as DHA, is an organic compound that belongs to the class of pyrone derivatives, specifically a 2-pyrone, and is chemically known as 3-acetyl-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2,4(3H)-dione.
Dehydroacetic acid appears as a white or slightly yellow crystalline powder with low solubility in water but good solubility in organic solvents such as ethanol, propylene glycol, and glycerin.
CAS Number: 520-45-6
Molecular Formula: C8H8O4
Molecular Weight: 168.15
EINECS Number: 208-293-9
Synonyms: RefChem:761396, GlyTouCan:G82156FZ, G82156FZ, DEHYDROACETIC ACID, 520-45-6, 3-Acetyl-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2,4(3H)-dione, 2H-Pyran-2,4(3H)-dione, 3-acetyl-6-methyl-, Acetic acid, dehydro-, 3-Acetyl-6-methyl-2,4-pyrandione, 3-acetyl-6-methylpyran-2,4-dione, 16807-48-0, 3-Acetyl-6-methyl-pyran-2,4-dione, MFCD00066709, DTXSID6020014, 3-Acetyl-6-methylpyrandione-2,4, NSC-8770, 3-acetyl-6-methyl-3,4-dihydro-2H-pyran-2,4-dione, 2-Acetyl-5-hydroxy-3-oxo-4-hexenoic acid, .delta.-lactone, 3-acetyl-6-methyl-2,4-dioxo-3H-pyran, Dehydroacetic acid [ISO], DTXCID9014, SCHEMBL17787, Dehydroacetic acid (Standard), orb1310187, HY-B1211R, PGRHXDWITVMQBC-UHFFFAOYSA-, MSK2505, NSC8770, CHEBI:137426, 4-Hexenoic acid, .delta.-lactone, HMS3264K05, HMS5083L05, Pharmakon1600-01301016, HY-B1211, 2H-Pyran-2, 3-acetyl-6-methyl-, Tox21_302764, WLN: T6OV DV CHJ CV1 F1, BBL013155, NSC760135, SBB056765, STL163953, Dehydroacetic acid, >=98.0% (T), AKOS000119576, AKOS016038058, CCG-213725, CS-4810, NSC-760135, 3-acetyl-6-methyl-3H-pyran-2,4-dione, NCGC00256469-01, 3-Acetyl-6-methyl-2,4(3H)-pyrandione, AC-10441, CAS-520-45-6, DS-15291, SY012826, DB-252330, ST2410411, D0039, NS00003021, ST50308131, 3-Acetyl-6-Methyldihydropyrandione-2,4(3H), EN300-20186, 3-Acetyl-6-methyl-2,3-dihydropyran-2,4-dione, AB01510434_02, AH-034/32463001, F079475, SR-01000389026, Dehydroacetic acid 1000 microg/mL in Ethyl acetate, SR-01000389026-1, BRD-A17300716-001-01-5, Q63088091, 3-Acetyl-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2,4(3H)-dione, enol form, 3-Acetyl-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2,4(3H)-dione, ion(1-), F0191-0260, 4-Hexenoic acid, 2-acetyl-5-hydroxy-3-oxo-, .delta.-lactone, Dehydroacetic acid, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard, Dehydroacetic acid, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard, Certified Reference Material, InChI=1/C8H8O4/c1-4-3-6(10)7(5(2)9)8(11)12-4/h3,7H,1-2H3, 3-Acetyl-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2,4(3H)-dione. enol form, 3-acetyl-6-methyl-2h-pyran-2,4(3h)-dione.enolform, 3-acetyl-6-methyl-2h-pyran-2,4(3h)-dioneenolform, 3-acetyl-6-methyl-2h-pyran-4(3h)-dione, 3-Acetyl-6-Methyldihydropyrandione-2,4, 3-Acetyl-6-methylpyrandione-2,4, 4(3H)-dione,3-acetyl-6-methyl-2H-Pyran-2, 4-Hexenoic acid, 2-acetyl-5-hydroxy-3-oxo-, delta-lactone
Dehydroacetic acid is a pyran-2,4-dione substituted at position 3 by an acetyl group and at position 6 by a methyl group.
A fungicide and bactericide it is used primarily in processed fruit and vegetables.
Dehydroacetic acid has a role as a fungicide, an antibacterial agent and a plasticiser.
Dehydroacetic acid is a pyran-2,4-dione and a ketone.
Dehydroacetic acid is a white to cream-coloured powder that is only very slightly soluble in water (less than 0.1 %).
However, the sodium salt hydrate (CSH7Na04.H20) has a solubility of 33% in water at 25°C, and 48% in propylene glycol.
The acid is 22% soluble in acetone, 18% in benzene, and I g dissolves in about 35 ml of ethanol.
Dehydroacetic acid is used to reduce pickle bloating, and as a pesticide and preservative for squash and strawberries.
Its permissible use level is 65ppm.
Dehydroacetic acid is one of the food additives found in red wine and was determined by ultra-fast liquid chromatography-tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry (UFLC-MS/MS).
To assay dehydroacetic acid, add 500 mg to a 250-ml Erlenmeyer flask and dissolve in 75 ml of neutral alcohol.
Following the addition of phenolphthalein T.S., titrate with 0.1 N NaOH to a pink end-point that persists for at least 30 s. Each ml of 0.1 N NaOH = 16.82 mg of dehydroacetic acid.
Dehydroacetic acid is a synthetic chemical (no plant-based preservatives that meet our efficacy standards currently exist) that is considered to be a low hazard for human health and for the environment.
Dehydroacetic acid, it can Inhibit microbial growth activities and prevent product deterioration.
Dehydroacetic acid has strong antifungal effect.
Dehydroacetic acids molecular formula is C8H8O4, and it is valued for its stability, antimicrobial properties, and versatility across a wide range of industrial and consumer applications.
Dehydroacetic acid is an organic compound which has several industrial applications.
Dehydroacetic acid is classified as a pyrone derivative.
Dehydroacetic acid presents as an odorless, colorless to white crystalline powder, almost insoluble in water and moderately soluble in most organic solvents.
It is prepared by the base-catalysed dimerization of diketene.
Commonly used organic bases include imidazole, DABCO, and pyridine.
Dehydroacetic Acid is an organic compound primarily serving as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care industry.
Dehydroacetic acid fights off the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, yeast, and mold in products, thus increasing the shelf life.
It is compatible with other preservatives when combined for added efficiency - making it a versatile choice.
In its raw form, Dehydroacetic Acid appears as a white crystalline powder that is odorless.
Further, it is a safe ingredient and is well tolerated by most skin types.
The chemical formula of Dehydroacetic Acid is C8H8O4.
The most important functional property of dehydroacetic acid is its ability to act as a preservative, inhibiting the growth of bacteria, molds, and yeasts in formulations that contain water.
When used in cosmetics, personal care products, and pharmaceuticals, it prevents microbial contamination and extends shelf life, which is crucial for products like creams, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, and liquid medicines that are prone to bacterial or fungal growth.
Its antimicrobial activity is effective over a broad range of pH levels, though it is most potent in slightly acidic to neutral formulations, making it ideal for skincare and cosmetic applications.
In addition to its preservative function, dehydroacetic acid also has a stabilizing effect, helping to maintain the chemical and physical integrity of formulations over time.
For example, it can prevent discoloration, unpleasant odors, or phase separation in creams, lotions, and emulsions, ensuring that the product remains appealing and safe throughout its shelf life.
Its compatibility with other common cosmetic ingredients, including surfactants, emollients, and fragrances, makes it a highly versatile additive in both rinse-off and leave-on formulations.
Dehydroacetic acid is also used in some industrial and specialty applications, such as coatings, adhesives, and polymers, where it acts as a preservative to protect water-containing formulations from microbial degradation during storage and use.
Dehydroacetic acid is sometimes employed in food applications in certain countries under regulated concentrations, where it helps prevent mold growth in processed foods or beverages, although it is less commonly used for food preservation than more traditional agents like sodium benzoate or potassium sorbate.
Dehydroacetic acid also finds applications in industrial products, such as adhesives, coatings, and polymer solutions, where water is present in the formulation.
Dehydroacetic acid prevents microbial spoilage and maintains the physical properties of the product during storage and transportation.
Its stability under normal conditions and compatibility with many solvents and polymers makes it a reliable additive for these industrial uses.
Dehydroacetic acid is a pyrone derivative, that is typically synthesized by the base-catalyzed dimerization of diketene.
Dehydroacetic acid is used as a preservative in pharmaceutical, food and cosmetic products.
Pharmaceutical secondary standards for application in quality control, provide pharma laboratories and manufacturers with a convenient and cost-effective alternative to the preparation of in-house working standards.
From a safety perspective, dehydroacetic acid is generally considered low in toxicity and safe for use within regulated concentrations in consumer products.
However, in concentrated form or under improper handling conditions, it may cause skin or eye irritation, and prolonged exposure can lead to mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Dehydroacetic acid is also relatively stable chemically, which reduces the risk of degradation products forming that could cause unwanted effects, but proper formulation practices are still necessary to ensure both safety and efficacy.
Melting point: 111–113 °C (lit.)
Boiling point: 270 °C (lit.)
Density: 1.1816 (rough estimate)
Bulk density: 700 kg/m³
Vapor pressure: 0.001 hPa (20 °C)
Refractive index: 1.4611 (estimate)
Flash point: 157 °C
Storage temperature: Store below +30 °C
Solubility: 2 g/L
Form: Fine crystalline powder
pKa: 5.53 ± 0.40 (Predicted)
Color: Light yellow or cream
pH: 4 (2 g/L, H₂O, 20 °C)
Odor: Almost odorless; slightly bitter-sweet taste
Water solubility: 500 mg/L at 25 °C
Merck: 14,2865
BRN: 6129
Stability: Stable. Incompatible with oxidizing agents, bases, and reducing agents.
InChIKey: PGRHXDWITVMQBC-UHFFFAOYSA-N
LogP: 0.78 at 20 °C
Dehydroacetic Acid and Sodium Dehydroacetate are tasteless, odorless white powders.
In cosmetics and personal care products, Dehydroacetic Acid and Sodium Dehydroacetate are used in the formulation of a wide variety of products, including bath, skin care, suntan, sunscreen, fragrance, shaving, hair and nail care products, as well as eye and facial makeup.
Dehydroacetic acid, also known as DAA, is a synthetic chemical widely used in cosmetics for its antibacterial and preservative properties.
Its chemical structure is related to acetic acid, but with two hydrogen atoms that have been removed, giving it unique properties.
Dehydroacetic acid helps maintain the freshness of cosmetic products and effectively protects against the proliferation of microorganisms, making the products safer to use.
This substance is particularly valued in the production of creams, lotions, and masks, as it helps to maintain their quality for longer.
In addition, it is well tolerated by the skin and rarely causes allergic reactions.
Dehydroacetic acid is obtained by synthetic methods, so its production is controlled, ensuring high quality and effectiveness.
When using products with this ingredient, you can feel at ease knowing that your cosmetics are not only effective but also safe.
Preservatives serve the role of neutralizing the proliferation of microorganisms in skincare products.
They are divided into two categories: preservatives derived from nature and synthetic preservatives.
Dehydroacetic Acid falls into the first category. This ingredient respects the balance of bacterial flora.
Dehydroacetic acid is a synthetic organic compound classified as a 2-pyrone derivative, specifically 3-acetyl-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2,4(3H)-dione, and it is recognized for its antimicrobial, antifungal, and stabilizing properties.
Dehydroacetic acid typically appears as a white or pale yellow crystalline powder, which is stable under normal conditions and has low volatility, making it easy to handle and incorporate into diverse formulations.
Its low solubility in water is offset by its good solubility in polar organic solvents such as ethanol, propylene glycol, glycerin, and certain oils, which allows it to be dispersed evenly in both water-based and emulsion systems.
Dehydroacetic acid contains both keto and enol functional groups, which contribute to its antimicrobial activity by disrupting the growth and metabolism of microorganisms at a cellular level.
The primary industrial and commercial function of dehydroacetic acid is as a preservative.
In cosmetics and personal care products, it is commonly added to formulations like lotions, creams, shampoos, conditioners, facial cleansers, and bath gels to prevent microbial contamination and extend product shelf life.
Its antimicrobial activity is particularly effective against bacteria and yeasts, while also providing some antifungal protection, which makes it ideal for water-containing formulations that are prone to spoilage.
Because it is relatively mild compared to stronger preservatives, it is often chosen for products intended for sensitive skin, children, or leave-on applications, where harsher chemicals might cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Dehydroacetic Acid is a beige to light-yellow crystalline powder that has a slight sourness.
Dehydroacetic acid has a melting point of 109℃～112℃, with a solubility of (25℃,g/100g), ethanol 3,glycol 1.7, olive oil＜1.6, glycerin＜0.1, water＜0.1.
Its pH value of a saturated aqueous solution is 4.
Dehydroacetic acid is thermostable and has no moisture absorption.
Dehydroacetic acid can be volatilized when heated by water.
Dehydroacetic acid can be used as a broad spectrum preservative, especially for mold and yeast.
The concentration of effective working is low and it is thermostable.
Dehydroacetic acid is a versatile, effective, and widely used preservative that combines antimicrobial activity with chemical stability, making it a preferred choice in cosmetics, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and certain specialty industrial applications.
Its effectiveness, regulatory approval in multiple regions, and broad compatibility with other ingredients make it a cornerstone preservative in modern formulation science.
In the world of cosmetics, safety and effectiveness are inseparable goals. One component that perfectly addresses these challenges is dehydroacetic acid.
Dehydroacetic acid not only acts as a preservative but also actively contributes to the stability of cosmetics.
Dehydroacetic acid effectively inhibits the proliferation of bacteria, molds, and yeasts, ensuring that your cream or lotion remains unchanged from the first to the last use.
This property is especially important when it comes to products that come into contact with the skin, as this is directly related to health protection.
Dehydroacetic acid also stands out for its versatility.
It can be used in various formulas – from facial care creams to hair masks or shampoos.
Importantly, this substance is stable even in more complex compositions.
This means that even more intensive products with active ingredients remain effective and safe for the user.
In addition, this acid almost never causes skin sensitivity or irritation, making it suitable even for sensitive skin or scalp.
Another interesting detail is that dehydroacetic acid not only protects against microorganisms but also helps reduce oxidation processes.
This means that it helps maintain the activity of the product’s components and prevents them from losing their effectiveness over time.
The result is products that not only last longer but also maintain their original quality.
This ability is particularly valuable in formulating more natural cosmetics that do not contain an excess of chemical synthetic preservatives.
At the same time, it is worth emphasizing that dehydroacetic acid is the result of a responsible production process that meets strict standards.
Dehydroacetic acid enables manufacturers to create reliable products that meet consumer needs.
By choosing cosmetics enriched with this ingredient, you can be sure that your skin and hair will receive high-quality care that combines science and aesthetics.
Dehydroacetic acid serves as both a preservative and, in some cases, an active antimicrobial agent in liquid medicines, syrups, and topical formulations.
Its presence ensures that microbial contamination is minimized during storage and use, which is essential for patient safety and efficacy.
Additionally, it is sometimes included in cosmeceutical or dermatological products for its antifungal properties, helping prevent issues such as dandruff or mild skin infections caused by yeasts like Candida species.
Uses:
Dehydroacetic acid is used as stabilizer for cosmetic and pharmaceutical products due to its fungicide and bactericide activity, as additive for PVC-stabilizers and for the syntheses of veterinary medicines. Product Data Sheet
Geogard(R) 111a preservative is based on Dehydroacetic acid and therefore are recognized by major cosmetic, toiletry and fragrance regulatory authorities worldwide for use in cosmetic and personal care products.
Dehydroacetic acid preservative is based on dehydroacetic acid (DHA) and benzyl alcohol, and therefore is recognized by major cosmetic, toiletry and fragrance regulatory authorities worldwide for use in cosmetic and personal care products.
Dehydroacetic acid preservative is based on six synergistic components, all with wide global regulatory acceptance: dehydroacetic acid (DHA); salicylic acid; benzoic acid; phenoxyethanol; benzyl alcohol; and benzethonium chloride.
Industrially, dehydroacetic acid has several uses which include the following: as a fungicide and bactericide.
The sodium salt, sodium dehydroacetate, is often used in place of dehydroacetic acid because of its greater solubility in water.
When used as a food additive, dehydroacetic acid is referred to using the International Numbering System for Food Additives or E number 265.
The compounds are synthesized when dehydroacetic acid is exposed to aqueous solutions containing primary amines.
Dehydroacetic acid is a preservative with low sensitizing potential.
This is a weak acid used as a fungi-and bacteria-destroying agent in cosmetics.
The presence of organic matter decreases its effective ness.
Dehydroacetic acid is not irritating or allergy causing when applied on the skin.
Dehydroacetic acid is a preservative that is a crystalline powder with a solubility of less than 0.1 g in 100 g of water at 25°C.
It can undergo a variety of chemical reactions which give it utility in many applications.
Dehydroacetic acid is used at 0.01–0.5% for microbiological growth inhibition in various foods.
It is used for cut or peeled squash, with no more than 65 ppm remaining in or on the prepared squash.
Dehydroacetic acid is primarily used as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products, where it plays a crucial role in inhibiting the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds in water-containing formulations.
Dehydroacetic acid is commonly incorporated into products such as lotions, creams, shampoos, conditioners, facial cleansers, bath gels, and liquid soaps, where its antimicrobial properties ensure the product remains safe and stable throughout its shelf life.
Its effectiveness over a broad pH range, particularly in slightly acidic to neutral formulations, makes it highly versatile, allowing manufacturers to use it in both rinse-off and leave-on products without compromising safety or performance.
In addition to its preservative function, dehydroacetic acid acts as a stabilizer, helping maintain the chemical and physical integrity of cosmetic formulations.
For example, it prevents phase separation, discoloration, or the formation of unpleasant odors in emulsions, creams, and lotions, ensuring that the product remains appealing to consumers while delivering consistent performance over time.
Its mildness compared to stronger preservatives also makes it suitable for products intended for sensitive skin, infants, or frequent use, where harsher chemicals might cause irritation or allergic reactions.
In pharmaceutical applications, dehydroacetic acid is employed as a preservative in liquid medications such as syrups, suspensions, and topical preparations, preventing microbial contamination during storage and use. Its ability to inhibit fungal and bacterial growth is especially valuable in formulations that contain water, sugars, or other nutrients that could otherwise encourage microbial proliferation. In some specialized medical treatments, it also contributes to the stability of the formulation, ensuring that active ingredients remain evenly distributed and chemically intact over time.
Dehydroacetic acid is also used in certain industrial and specialty applications, such as adhesives, coatings, polymer solutions, and photographic chemicals, where it functions as a preservative to prevent microbial degradation and maintain product quality during storage and handling.
In these applications, its chemical stability and compatibility with other components allow manufacturers to preserve products that contain water or other reactive ingredients without compromising performance.
In some regions, dehydroacetic acid has limited use in food preservation, where it helps inhibit mold and yeast growth in processed foods, beverages, and confectionery products.
Although its use in foods is less common than traditional preservatives like sodium benzoate or potassium sorbate, it provides an additional option for maintaining microbial safety in specific acidic food systems.
Dehydroacetic acid are extensive because it is a multifunctional, stable, and safe preservative that can maintain microbial control and chemical stability across a wide range of products.
Its application spans cosmetics, personal care, pharmaceuticals, some food products, and industrial formulations, making it a versatile ingredient that ensures product safety, extends shelf life, and preserves the intended aesthetic and functional qualities of the formulation.
Dehydroacetic acid is primarily utilized as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative, which means it effectively prevents the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds in aqueous formulations.
In the cosmetic and personal care industry, this makes it an essential ingredient in products such as facial cleansers, creams, lotions, body washes, shampoos, conditioners, bath gels, and other water-based formulations.
By preventing microbial contamination, DHA ensures that these products remain safe for daily use, even after prolonged storage, and helps maintain their desired texture, color, and fragrance throughout the shelf life.
Its preservative efficacy is enhanced when used in combination with other mild preservatives, allowing formulators to achieve a synergistic effect, which not only broadens the spectrum of antimicrobial activity but also reduces the overall concentration of preservatives required.
This property is particularly valuable for products designed for sensitive skin, infants, or dermatologically sensitive users, where minimizing irritation while maintaining efficacy is critical.
Because DHA is stable across a wide pH range and compatible with a variety of emollients, surfactants, and emulsifiers, it allows the creation of complex formulations without compromising product stability.
In pharmaceutical applications, dehydroacetic acid is used in liquid oral medications, syrups, and topical pharmaceutical preparations as a preservative that prevents microbial contamination.
Its ability to inhibit fungal and bacterial growth ensures that active pharmaceutical ingredients remain effective, that the formulation remains homogeneous, and that the product is safe for patient use.
In certain dermatological treatments or medicated personal care products, DHA also contributes to antifungal protection, helping manage conditions such as dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, or minor yeast infections.
Beyond personal care and pharmaceuticals, DHA has important industrial and specialty applications.
Dehydroacetic acid is incorporated into adhesives, coatings, polymers, and emulsions, where it functions as a preservative to protect water-containing products from microbial spoilage.
Its chemical stability and low reactivity make it an attractive additive in industrial formulations where the prevention of mold, yeast, or bacterial growth is critical, especially in products that are stored for extended periods or exposed to varying environmental conditions.
Safety Profile:
Poison by ingestion moderately toxic by intraperitoneal route.
Questionable carcinogen with experimental tumorigenic data.
Combustible when exposed to heat or flame, when heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes.
Dehydroacetic acid is generally considered to have a low toxicity profile and is widely regarded as safe when used within regulated concentrations in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial formulations.
However, like many preservatives, it can present certain hazards under improper handling, high concentrations, or direct exposure to sensitive tissues.
The primary hazards are related to skin contact, eye contact, inhalation, ingestion, and environmental exposure.
In its concentrated or pure form, dehydroacetic acid can cause mild to moderate skin irritation.
Prolonged or repeated contact with the skin may lead to redness, itching, or dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
In cosmetic formulations, the concentrations are typically low enough to minimize irritation, but industrial workers handling the raw compound are advised to wear protective gloves and clothing to avoid direct contact.
Dehydroacetic acid can be irritating to the eyes, especially in powder or concentrated solution form.
Exposure may result in stinging, redness, tearing, or temporary discomfort.
Appropriate eye protection such as safety goggles is recommended when handling the raw chemical in laboratories or industrial settings.
Inhalation hazards: While dehydroacetic acid has low volatility, dust or aerosolized particles from the pure substance may irritate the respiratory tract if inhaled.
Symptoms of inhalation exposure can include coughing, throat irritation, or shortness of breath.
Adequate ventilation and respiratory protection are recommended in production or processing facilities.
Ingesting large amounts of dehydroacetic acid may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, or discomfort.
However, in regulated concentrations used in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, it is considered safe for oral exposure and is not associated with significant systemic toxicity.
Care should still be taken to avoid accidental ingestion of concentrated or raw forms of the chemical.
