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Tropolone

Good

Antioxidant

No known benefits

Tropolone at a glance

  • Organic compound that can be derived from plants
  • Has antioxidant properties
  • Used as a preservative due to its antimicrobial abilities
  • Pale-yellow solid in its raw form

Tropolone description

Tropolone is an organic compound that can be derived from plants. It does have some antioxidant properties but is of most interest to cosmetic chemists as a preservative. Studies have shown tropolone has antimicrobial abilities, specifically the ability to combat bacterial and fungal growth. In its raw form, tropolone is a pale-yellow solid. Tropolone is usually combined with more broad-spectrum preservatives such as phenoxyethanol, where the blend is used in amounts up to 1%.

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Tropolone references

  • EChemi.com, Accessed February 2023, Website
  • Clinicaltrials.gov, Accessed February 2023, Website
  • Scientific Reports, October 2015, ePublication

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.