Dehydroacetic Acid
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: sodium dehydroacetate
Synthetic preservative
At a glance
EWG Safety Score
What Is Dehydroacetic Acid?
Dehydroacetic acid is a synthetic preservative used in amounts of 0.6% or less where it’s proven to be safe and effective. Dehydroacetic acid is characterized as a white to cream crystalline powder. Sometimes its salt form (known as sodium dehydroacetate) is used, as it is more soluble in certain types of cosmetic formulas. Dehydroacetic acid is most effective on fungi.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
-
Journal of the American College of Toxicology, 1985, pages 123-159 [URL] Journal of the American College of Toxicology, 1985
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- DEHYDROACETIC ACID
- INN Name
- dehydroacetic acid
- EC Number
- 208-293-9 / 212-227-4 / -
- Function
- Preservative
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