Raspberry Ketone

What is Raspberry Ketone?

Raspberry ketone, chemically known as 4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)butan-2-one, is a naturally occurring phenolic compound present in small amounts in red raspberries, cranberries, and other berries, responsible for their signature sweet, fruity aroma. Due to its low concentration in nature, it is typically synthesized for commercial applications. In cosmetic formulations, it functions primarily as a perfuming agent, imparting a pleasant raspberry-like scent that elevates the overall sensory profile of products such as lotions, creams, and serums. Additionally, it acts as a masking agent to neutralize off-putting odors from other ingredients and serves as a skin conditioning component, promoting skin suppleness by interacting with the skin's surface lipids. Its volatile nature allows it to evaporate gradually, providing lingering fragrance without heavy residue.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-2 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Fragrance ingredient
Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Masking
Reduces perception of unpleasant odors or tastes by neutralizing them or covering them with more acceptable sensory notes.

Benefits

Provides a sweet, natural raspberry scent to enhance product appeal.

Helps cover unpleasant odors for a cleaner sensory experience.

Supports skin softness and flexibility through conditioning effects.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users enjoying fruity fragrances in daily skincare.
People with fragrance sensitivities or allergies.
Those preferring products that mask base odors effectively.
Those experiencing reactions to phenolic compounds.
Individuals seeking gentle skin conditioning from natural-derived ingredients.
Users with highly reactive or compromised skin barriers.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard overall with limited concerns for typical use.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Raspberry Ketone

What does raspberry ketone do in skincare?

It adds fruity scent, masks odors, and conditions skin for softness.

Is raspberry ketone safe for skin?

Yes, it has a low hazard rating and is non-comedogenic for most users.

Can raspberry ketone clog pores?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0.