What it is
Anisaldehyde is an aromatic aldehyde, 4-methoxybenzaldehyde, that has a sweet floral and anise-like odor. It is used in cosmetics primarily as a fragrance and scent-masking ingredient and occurs naturally in some essential oils such as anise. In sunscreens it contributes to the scent and does not provide UV protection.
Safety & warnings
As an aldehyde fragrance material, anisaldehyde can be a potential skin sensitizer in some individuals and is used at limited levels in fragranced products. People with fragrance sensitivities or who prefer fragrance-free formulas may want to avoid products containing it. It is not an oil, so comedogenicity is not a typical concern.
Origin & sourcing
Found naturally in plants such as anise and fennel, and also produced synthetically for fragrance use.
History
Anisaldehyde has long been used in perfumery and flavoring for its sweet anise-like character.
Questions everyone asks
Why is anisaldehyde in a sunscreen?
It is a fragrance ingredient that gives a sweet, anise-like scent and helps mask base odors; it has no role in UV protection.
Is it a concern for sensitive skin?
As a fragrance aldehyde it can be a potential sensitizer for some people, so those with fragrance sensitivities may prefer to avoid it.