What it is
Isoeugenyl acetate is the acetate ester of isoeugenol and is used purely as a fragrance component, contributing a warm, sweet, spicy clove-like note. It is added in small amounts to perfume oils and finished products to round out and soften fragrance accords. It has no functional cosmetic role beyond scent.
Safety & warnings
Isoeugenyl acetate is closely related to isoeugenol, a recognized fragrance allergen, and it can hydrolyze or be perceived similarly; it is therefore relevant to individuals with fragrance sensitivities and is subject to fragrance-allergen labeling thresholds in some markets. People with known sensitivity to clove or eugenol-type materials may wish to avoid it.
Origin & sourcing
Can be produced synthetically or derived from isoeugenol obtained from natural sources; in cosmetics it is supplied as a defined aroma chemical.
Questions everyone asks
Why is isoeugenyl acetate in sunscreen?
It is a fragrance ingredient added to give a warm, spicy clove scent, not for any protective function.
Is it an allergen?
It is related to isoeugenol, a known fragrance allergen, so it may matter to people with fragrance sensitivities.