Symrise repositions SymClariol as antimicrobial alternative to EU-banned zinc pyrithione

11 Jul 2022 --- Symrise is strategically reintroducing its multifunctional SymClariol (decylene glycol) as an antimicrobial emollient that protects the skin and scalp. The company is now marketing SymClariol as an alternative to the banned zinc pyrithione, a reproductive toxin.

“SymClariol is a readily biodegradable synthesized ingredient from Germany,” Laura Meunier, global product manager at Symrise, tells PersonalCareInsights.

The move focuses on the ingredients’ strengths, Symrise claims.

“We have taken an in-depth look at SymClariol’s capabilities. The versatile ingredient is globally compliant. Formulators can use it in many concepts from scalp to toe,” continues Meunier..

Until now, the ingredient was under the product protection portfolio. It is now re-launched under the skin protection or hygiene category.

Uses from head to toe
Symrise shares that the ingredient is recognized for its scalp microbiome-balancing effects when used in a professional hair care range.

“A link exists between overgrowth of certain microorganisms and imbalanced skin (notable through i.e. dandruff, impure skin, etc.) Among other properties, SymClariol as a cosmetic hygiene ingredient helps to limit the overgrowth of microorganisms and maintain clean and healthy skin,” adds Meunier. 

“The microbiome balancing effect of SymClariol is not necessarily linked to its anti-microbial properties directly.SymClariol helps control dandruff and works well for skincare, acne-prone and oily skin. ”

Additionally, the ingredient is said to assist with controlling dandruff and works well for skincare, acne-prone and oily skin.

The company suggests SymClariol can also be used for foot care as it prevents odors and has protective properties.

The versatile ingredient can be used in rinse-off or leave-on personal care formulations for skin or hair. 

Decylene glycol has a lipophilic nature (fat- and oil-soluble, not water-soluble) within Symrise’s 1,2-alkanediol range.

EU Regulation on the anti-dandruff ingredient
The EU Regulation 2021/1902 took effect this March, banning cosmetics containing zinc pyrithione, an ingredient used to combat dandruff. It was classified as a CMR substance of category 1B (toxic for reproduction).

“The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety concluded that zinc pyrithione can be considered safe when used as an anti-dandruff ingredient in rinse-off hair products up to a maximum concentration of 1%,” states the Commission Regulation.

“However, since it has not been established that there are no suitable alternative substances available concerning anti-dandruff ingredients in rinse-off hair products, zinc pyrithione should be deleted from the list of restricted substances in Annex III to Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 and from the list of preservatives allowed in cosmetic products in Annex V to that Regulation,” it continues.

“It should also be added to the list of substances prohibited in cosmetic products in Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009.”Symrise markets SymClariol as a readily biodegradable alternative to the banned zinc pyrithione, a reproductive toxic. 

Moreover, Symrise says SymClariol is a China-compliant alternative to zinc pyrithione. Meunier says SymClariol received the runner up award for Henkel’s sustainability award 2021 and won 2nd place at the BSB award 2008.

Initiatives by Symrise
Symrise recently unveiled its augmented artificial intelligence Philyra 2.0, which equips perfumers with a creative and environmentally sustainable tool to formulate perfumes. This updated technology enables brands to produce renewable and biodegradable alternatives while encouraging experimentation and speeding up production.

The company also achieved a gold level certification by SAI Platform’s Farm Sustainability Assessment for sustainably sourcing hibiscus. Symrise claims to be the first in the industry to receive this distinction, which recognizes the promotion of sustainability across its agricultural practices in various crops and regions, supply chains and its use of water and soil.

In other hair care developments, Symrise revealed a natural, mushroom-based ingredient, Symhair Thermo, to protect hair from heat damage during styling. The ingredient is based on traditional Chinese medicine, consisting of a unique blend of hair beneficial properties.

By Venya Patel