The ingredient, explained
P-anisic Acid
Formulation research examines p-anisic acid in preservation systems.
Ingredient guide
What it is and what it does
Benzoic acid, 4-methoxy-
About this ingredient: EU CosIng ingredient registry (via Open Beauty Facts taxonomy) ↗
- Masking
- Reduces or conceals the formula's underlying odour or taste.
Function definitions: European Commission ingredient function definitions (SCCNFP/0299/00, pages 16 to 20) ↗
Registry functions describe possible formulation roles, not results for a finished product. A dictionary entry is not an approval or a safety assessment.
A closer look
What the research shows
Formulation research
Adding p-anisic acid and other antimicrobial ingredients improved challenge-test performance in the studied cosmetic preservation systems.
What this does not tell us
The work concerns mixtures and preservation of the product. It does not show an independent skin benefit, or guarantee adequate preservation in a different formula.
Sources for this summary. PubMed 20447363 ↗
Research review checked Oct 1, 2026
Bounded targeted searches for the exact ingredient identity in primary research or final expert assessments, with selected-source verification. Not a systematic review.
Ingredient research is not proof that a product containing this ingredient works.
Read the 1 selected study
Formulation research
New alternatives to cosmetics preservation. ↗
Journal of cosmetic science · 2010
Follow the formula
Products containing this ingredient
From the wider catalogue. Linked by the ingredient list, without an efficacy ranking.
Names and identifiers
Registry identity
Benzoic acid, 4-methoxy-
- INCI name on ingredient lists
- P-ANISIC ACID
- CAS registry number
- 100-09-4
- EC number
- 202-818-5
Sources for this ingredient record
- EU CosIng ingredient registry (via Open Beauty Facts taxonomy) ↗ · ODbL 1.0 (Open Beauty Facts database) · Recorded Aug 8, 2026