Acrylonitrile

Acrylonitrile is a volatile, oil-soluble petrochemical monomer used industrially as a solvent and intermediate. It occasionally turns up in niche, heavy-duty cleansing systems for its strong solvency and fast evaporation, though this use is rare.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A harsh industrial solvent rarely used in cosmetics due to safety concerns.
Category
Cleansing
Type
Solvent

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Poor

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Can break down stubborn oily residues and evaporates quickly, minimizing leftover feel. Due to irritation and safety concerns, any cosmetic upside is very limited.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Seldom included; if present, it would be in heavy-duty rinse-off cleansers or makeup removers rather than leave-on products.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Volatile and irritating to skin, eyes, and respiratory pathways, with potential systemic toxicity upon exposure. Classified by agencies as a probable human carcinogen; unsuitable for leave-on use and generally avoided in cosmetics.

Is Acrylonitrile a Good Ingredient?

Provides strong solvency and fast flash-off, but its volatility and toxicity risks outweigh cosmetic benefits, so it earns a Poor rating.

Products with Acrylonitrile

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