At a glance
- CAS number
- 520-45-6
- INCI name
- Dehydroacetic Acid
- Function
- preservative, antifungal, antibacterial
- Typical use level
- 0.1%–0.6%
- Solubility
- oil
- Stable pH
- 4–7
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
DHA 3-Acetyl-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2,4(3H)-dione Methylacetopyranone Dehydroacetic Acid (DHA)
Compatibility
Works well with:
Benzyl Alcohol Phenoxyethanol Ethylhexylglycerin Glycerin Caprylyl Glycol
Use caution with:
High pH bases Sodium Hydroxide
Dehydroacetic acid is most effective and stable in formulas with a pH below 7; at higher pH it can convert to its sodium salt form (sodium dehydroacetate), altering solubility and potentially reducing efficacy. It is commonly blended with benzyl alcohol or phenoxyethanol to achieve broad-spectrum preservation. Avoid combining with strongly alkaline ingredients without accounting for the resulting pH shift.
Formulation notes
Dehydroacetic acid is a broad-spectrum preservative with particularly strong antifungal and moderate antibacterial activity, used widely in rinse-off and leave-on personal care products. Formulators favor it for its good tolerability profile and effectiveness at low use levels, often in combination with other preservatives for full-spectrum coverage. It is regulated by the EU Cosmetics Regulation (Annex V) with a maximum concentration of 0.6% in finished products.
Frequently asked questions
What is Dehydroacetic Acid?
Dehydroacetic Acid is a preservative, antifungal, antibacterial used in cosmetic and personal-care formulation. Typical use level is 0.1%–0.6%. It is oil-soluble. Stable in the pH 4–7 range.
What is Dehydroacetic Acid used for?
Dehydroacetic Acid is used as preservative, antifungal, antibacterial in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.
What is the typical use level of Dehydroacetic Acid?
Dehydroacetic Acid is typically used at 0.1%–0.6% in the finished formulation. Always confirm against your supplier's technical data sheet.
What is the CAS number of Dehydroacetic Acid?
The CAS registry number for Dehydroacetic Acid is 520-45-6. Its INCI name is Dehydroacetic Acid.
At what pH is Dehydroacetic Acid stable?
Dehydroacetic Acid is generally stable in the pH 4–7 range.
What ingredients are compatible with Dehydroacetic Acid?
Dehydroacetic Acid works well with Benzyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycerin, Caprylyl Glycol. Use caution when combining it with High pH bases, Sodium Hydroxide.
Related ingredients
- Piroctone OlaminePreservative
- Potassium SorbatePreservative
- ChlorphenesinPreservative
- HydroxyacetophenonePreservative
- Sodium BenzoatePreservative
- Glyceryl CaprylateEmollient