Is synthetic musk toxic to our health ?

Synthetic musk is a chemical ingredient widely used in the fragrance industry to replace natural musks derived from animals. Unfortunately, many concerns remain regarding its impact on health and the environment. Numerous scientific studies (see at the end of the article) have highlighted potential risks associated with these chemical compounds, particularly specific varieties.

What is synthetic musk?

Synthetic musk is a chemical reproduction of natural musk, originally extracted from the gland of the musk deer. To address ethical and environmental concerns, the fragrance and cosmetics industry has developed synthetic alternatives. These can be classified into several categories:

• Nitrated musks (such as musk xylene and musk ketone)
• Polycyclic musks (such as galaxolide and tonalide)
• Macrocyclic musks, considered less concerning

Concerns surrounding synthetic musk

Health impact
The IARC, International Agency for Research on Cancer, has classified certain synthetic musks due to their potential carcinogenic properties. Specifically, musk ketone and musk xylene have been classified as substances suspected of being carcinogenic to humans (category 2). As a result of this classification, their use is now prohibited in cosmetics and fragrances in several regions worldwide. However, not all synthetic musks are banned to this day.

Potential endocrine disruptors
Some synthetic musks, particularly polycyclic musks like galaxolide and tonalide, are suspected of acting as endocrine disruptors. They could potentially interfere with the hormonal system and affect reproductive health.

Environmental impact
In addition to negatively affecting our health, polycyclic and nitrated musks are found in wastewater and even in the tissues of some aquatic organisms. Their persistence in the environment raises concerns about their accumulation in the food chain.

What alternatives to synthetic musks?

Given the potential risks of synthetic musks, natural and eco-responsible perfumes offer a safer alternative. Thanks to biotechnological innovation, it is now possible to recreate musky scents from natural isolates (specific odor molecules derived from the plant world), thus avoiding controversial substances. This alternative is more expensive, but it offers safety for both our health and the environment. Green biotechnology will allow us, in the future, to create 100% natural, high-quality perfumes and cosmetics.

The debate around synthetic musks is based on real concerns about health and the environment (scientific studies, IARC...). Choosing a 100% natural fragrance without synthetic musks avoids exposure to potentially toxic substances while prioritizing an eco-friendly approach. Liya Parfum Paris is committed to this approach, offering you exceptional fragrances that respect both your health and the planet.

Scientific studies:

"Synthetic Musks May Encourage Toxic Bioaccumulation"
This study, published in Environmental Health Perspectives, examines how certain synthetic musks can inhibit cellular defense systems, thereby increasing the toxicity of other chemical compounds. Researchers found that these musks can accumulate in human tissues, including breast milk, raising concerns about their long-term effects on human health.

"Risk Assessment of Musk Xylene and Musk Ketone"
This report from the French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM) analyzes the risks associated with the use of musk xylene and musk ketone. It concludes that these compounds present a carcinogenic potential and recommends limiting their use in cosmetic products.