P-ANISIC ACID
P-ANISIC ACID, also called p-anisic acid, is an aromatic compound that occurs as a plant metabolite. The name on an ingredient list identifies the substance itself; it is not the name of a particular plant extract or of a whole essential oil.
P-ANISIC ACID: what it is
P-ANISIC ACID, also called p-anisic acid, is an aromatic compound that occurs as a plant metabolite. The name on an ingredient list identifies the substance itself; it is not the name of a particular plant extract or of a whole essential oil.
Plant occurrence has been documented, and one study identified p-anisic acid in extracts from Acacia mearnsii flowers. That is one possible botanical source, but it does not disclose the raw-material origin in a given product: the same substance can also be made by an industrial route. Its presence on a label therefore does not mean the cosmetic was made from acacia flowers.
P-ANISIC ACID: what it does in cosmetics
In cosmetics, P-ANISIC ACID is used as a fragrance ingredient. In everyday terms, it can contribute to the product's scent and help shape or soften the notes noticed during application; it is not included to promise moisturising, brightening, or skin treatment.
P-anisic acid appeared in laboratory research on fractions extracted from Acacia mearnsii flowers and tested against microorganisms. That result concerns a fractionated extract and tests away from skin, not a topical cosmetic or the isolated ingredient in people. It does not support an expectation of antibacterial action on the face or acne treatment.
Products containing this ingredient
See which products include it and the name used in each composition.
