Benzyl Benzoate is a versatile compound extensively used in cosmetic formulations for its functional benefits. Its primary applications include serving as a solvent, fragrance component, and stabilizer, enhancing product stability and user experience. Benzyl Benzoate’s chemical properties contribute to its efficacy in skin care, where it can improve texture and provide a soothing effect. This makes it a valuable addition to various formulations, such as lotions, creams, and perfumes.
CAS Number: 120-51-4
Molecular Formula: C14H12O2
Synonyms:
- Benzoic acid, phenylmethyl ester
- Ascabiol
- Benylate
- Scabiozon
- Benzoic acid, benzyl ester
+ 29 more…
- Novoscabin
- Scabitox
- Scobenol
- Phenylmethyl benzoate
- Ascabin
- Scabagen
- Benzyl phenylformate
- Benzylets
- Colebenz
- Peruscabin
- Scabanca
- Scabide
- Vanzoate
- Benzyl benzenecarboxylate
- benzylbenzoate
- Antiscabiosum
- Venzonate
- Benzylis benzoas
- Peruscabina
- Benzylbenzenecarboxylate
- Benzyl alcohol benzoic ester
- Benzylum benzoicum
- Benzylester kyseliny benzoove
- Acarobenzyl
- Benzevan
- CHEMBL1239
- BENZYLOXY PHENYL KETONE
- Benzoate de benzyle
- Benzoic acid-benzyl ester
Properties of Benzyl Benzoate
Chemical Identifiers
| EC Number | 204-402-9 |
| UNII | N863NB338G |
| InChIKey | SESFRYSPDFLNCH-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| SMILES | C1=CC=C(C=C1)COC(=O)C2=CC=CC=C2 |
| IUPAC Name | benzyl benzoate |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C14H12O2/c15-14(13-9-5-2-6-10-13)16-11-12-7-3-1-4-8-12/h1-10H,11H2 |
Physical and Chemical Properties
As a colorless to pale yellow liquid, Benzyl Benzoate possesses a sweet floral aroma. It is soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and ether but only slightly soluble in water. With a high boiling point (323°C) and low volatility, it is a stable compound suited for diverse applications, including use as a plasticizer and a solvent in fragrances and personal care products.
| Property | Value |
| pH | Practically neutral in an alcohol solution when tested with moistened litmus paper |
| LogP | 3.97 |
| Odor | Mildly balsamic, reminiscent of almonds |
| Taste | Pungent and burning |
| Density | 1.1121 g/cm³ at 25°C |
| Viscosity | 8.292 cP at 25°C |
| Color/Form | Crystalline leaflets or oily liquid |
| Solubility | 15.4 mg/L |
| Flash Point | 148°C |
| Boiling Point | 323.5°C |
| Decomposition | Produces carbon oxides under fire conditions |
| Melting Point | 21°C |
| Vapor Density | 7.31 (Air = 1) |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.000224 mmHg |
| Surface Tension | 26.6 dyne/cm at 210.5°C |
| Refractive Index | 1.5680 at 20°C/D |
| Heat of Combustion | -6.69×10⁹ J/kmol |
| Heat of Vaporization | 18.6 kcal/mol at 12–60°C |
| Stability/Shelf Life | Stable under recommended storage conditions |
| Kovats Retention Index | 1725 |
| Autoignition Temperature | 480°C (896°F) |
| Other Experimental Properties | Congeals above 18°C |
Structural Properties
Benzyl Benzoate has a moderate level of complexity and contains 16 atoms in total, with a molecular weight just above 212 grams per mole. Its structure is quite stable, with no formal charge or isotopes. It has a few rotatable bonds, indicating flexibility in its molecular structure, and is known for being canonicalized, meaning its structure is recognized in a standard form.
Additionally, it does not form hydrogen bonds easily and has a relatively small polar surface area, which may affect its solubility and interactions with other substances.
| Property | Value |
| XLogP3 | 4 |
| Complexity | 213 |
| Exact Mass | 212.083729621 g/mol |
| Formal Charge | 0 |
| Heavy Atom Count | 16 |
| Molecular Weight | 212.24 g/mol |
| Monoisotopic Mass | 212.083729621 g/mol |
| Isotope Atom Count | 0 |
| Rotatable Bond Count | 4 |
| Compound Is Canonicalized | Yes |
| Hydrogen Bond Donor Count | 0 |
| Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count | 2 |
| Covalently-Bonded Unit Count | 1 |
| Topological Polar Surface Area | 26.3 Ų |
| Defined Atom Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Defined Bond Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count | 0 |
Uses of Benzyl Benzoate in Cosmetics
Functional role in cosmetics:
- Benzyl Benzoate is used as a base, fragrance, moisturizing/humectant, opacifying agent, preservative/stabilizer, and as a solvent agent in cosmetics.
Other uses:
- Acts as a surfactant and surface-active agent.
- Used as a solvent in product formulations.
- Included in cosmetic formulations such as lotions and creams.
- In food additives as flavoring agents.
Cosmetic Products Containing Benzyl Benzoate
Recent products using Benzyl Benzoate in their cosmetic formulations
- Beautycounter Beyond Gloss, Rosewood
- Kora Organics Noni Glow Face Oil
- Henry Rose Fragrance, Flora Carnivora
- Aromatica Ritual Hair Oil, Lavender & Patchouli
- True Botanicals Shine & Protect Hair Cream Oil
- Rosy & Earnest eau de parfum, Vanilla Rum Royal
- The 7 Virtues Perfume, Orange Blossom
Top companies using Benzyl Benzoate in their cosmetic products
- Beautycounter
- Kora Organics
- Henry Rose
- Aromatica
- True Botanicals
- Rosy & Earnest
- The 7 Virtues
How Benzyl Benzoate Works in Formulations
Benzyl Benzoate is used in cosmetics as a solvent, preservative, and fragrance ingredient. It is effective in dissolving oils and enhancing product stability.
Ideal Concentration and Benefits in Different Formulations
Solvent and Carrier
Benzyl Benzoate is a solvent that helps dissolve other ingredients, particularly in oil-based formulations.
- Concentration: 1%–5%
- Benefit: Helps dissolve and deliver actives, essential oils, and fragrances into a formula. It is used to improve the delivery of active ingredients and can help incorporate fragrance oils and essential oils into formulations.
Emollient and Skin Conditioning
Benzyl Benzoate can function as an emollient that softens and smooths the skin.
- Concentration: 0.5%–5%
- Benefit: Enhances skin feel in creams, lotions, and body oils. Adds moisturizing properties to improve texture and user experience.
Fragrance and Preservative
Benzyl Benzoate contributes a sweet, mild floral aroma, making it useful in fragrances and personal care products like perfumes, deodorants, and body lotions. In addition to its fragrance properties, it acts as a preservative in certain products, helping to prevent microbial growth.
Compatibility with Other Ingredients
Benzyl Benzoate is compatible with a wide variety of ingredients, including essential oils, fragrances, emulsifiers, and surfactants. It can be used in both water-based and oil-based formulations, although it is most commonly found in oil-based products.
Stability and Shelf Life
Benzyl Benzoate is a stable ingredient, but like many fragrant compounds, it’s sensitive to light and air.
- Shelf life: 12–24 months
- Best storage: Keep in airtight, opaque containers to prevent oxidation
Formulation Challenges and Troubleshooting
Benzyl Benzoate is a versatile ingredient, but there are some formulation challenges to consider to optimize its performance:
Irritation and Sensitivity
Benzyl Benzoate may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially in leave-on products.
Solution: Use Benzyl Benzoate at lower concentrations (typically less than 1%) in formulations for sensitive skin. Perform patch testing before incorporating it into large-scale production.
Solubility Issues
Benzyl Benzoate is oil-soluble, which may make it difficult to incorporate into water-based formulations.
Solution: Ensure that formulations requiring Benzyl Benzoate are oil-based or include an emulsifier to effectively disperse the ingredient in aqueous formulations.
Stability in Light and Air
Exposure to light and air can lead to the degradation of Benzyl Benzoate, affecting the product’s effectiveness and shelf life.
Solution: Store products containing Benzyl Benzoate in opaque, airtight containers and avoid prolonged exposure to light and heat during manufacturing and storage.
Overuse and Residue
Excessive use of Benzyl Benzoate can leave a residue on the skin or hair, particularly in high concentrations.
Solution: Use Benzyl Benzoate in moderation (typically below 5% in cosmetic formulations) to avoid excessive buildup or sticky residue.
Interaction with Other Ingredients
Benzyl Benzoate may interact with certain active ingredients, such as those with strong chemical properties, potentially altering the stability or effectiveness of the formulation.
Solution: Conduct compatibility testing with other active ingredients, particularly strong acids or bases, to ensure stability and prevent any unwanted interactions.
Is Benzyl Benzoate Safe in Cosmetics?
Safety reports for Benzyl Benzoate are given below:
- Safety Assessment of Benzyl Alcohol, Benzoic Acid and its Salts, and Benzyl Benzoate. Download PDF
Regulatory Considerations for Using Benzyl Benzoate in Cosmetic Formulations
Few regulatory considerations are to be taken into account before using Benzyl Benzoate as an ingredient. Given below is the list of those regulations:
FDA Requirements: Classified under certain OTC drug products for specific uses. Benzyl Benzoate is included as an active ingredient in pediculicide products but lacks sufficient evidence to establish safety and efficacy for other uses.
FIFRA Requirements: Under FIFRA regulations, Benzyl Benzoate is reviewed for human health and environmental safety as part of the pesticide reregistration program. It is categorized as a List D substance, indicating lower priority in safety concerns. The reregistration process includes evaluations by producers to confirm its eligibility for future use.
Atmospheric Standards: Regulated under VOC performance standards for equipment leaks in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). Benzyl Benzoate is produced as an intermediate or final product in these processes.
California Safe Cosmetics Program (CSCP) Reportable Ingredient: Designated as a fragrance allergen under EU Cosmetics Regulation No. 1223/2009. Reporting is required when used at concentrations ≥0.01% in rinse-off products or ≥0.001% in leave-on products.
Benzyl Benzoate Side Effects
Benzyl Benzoate is known to cause mild irritation upon direct contact with the skin or eyes, though these effects are typically transient. While animal studies indicate potential toxicity at high doses, including neurotoxic and developmental effects, no significant carcinogenicity has been observed for its metabolite, benzyl alcohol.
Studies suggest that Benzyl Benzoate exhibits estrogenic activity in vitro, necessitating further research to evaluate its absorption and effects in vivo.
Potential risks
Given below is the list of potential side effects associated with the use of Benzyl Benzoate in cosmetics:
- Allergic contact dermatitis (Skin Disease)
Symptoms
- Eye Exposure: May cause redness.
- Skin Exposure: Potential for absorption. Can lead to dryness and redness.
- Inhalation Exposure: May induce coughing and sore throat.
Interactions
Studies show morphological changes in adrenal cortex cells when Benzyl Benzoate is used in specific vehicle formulations with cyproterone acetate. Effects include alterations in mitochondrial structure and macrophage morphology.
Adverse Effects
Known as a skin sensitizer capable of inducing allergic reactions.
Exposure Routes
Absorption occurs via inhalation of aerosols, skin contact, and ingestion.
Human Toxicity Excerpts
Benzyl Benzoate has shown estrogenic responses in assays with breast cancer cell lines. It increased the expression of estrogen-responsive genes and induced cell proliferation over extended periods. Further investigation is needed to determine the compound’s absorption through skin and its effect in vivo.
Antidote and Emergency Treatment
- Immediate First Aid: Decontaminate thoroughly. Administer artificial respiration if needed. Flush eyes with water immediately. Do not induce vomiting. Monitor airway and administer medical oxygen if required. Seek medical attention promptly.
- Basic Treatment: Ensure airway patency. Address respiratory insufficiency with appropriate measures. Administer oxygen, monitor for pulmonary edema, and treat shock or seizures as necessary.
- Advanced Treatment: Consider advanced airway management in severe cases. Administer beta agonists for bronchospasm and monitor cardiac function. Manage hypotension with fluid resuscitation cautiously to avoid overload. Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam.
Environmental and Sustainability Impact
Benzyl Benzoate is commonly used in cosmetics for its solvent, fragrance, and preservative properties. While it is generally safe in cosmetic formulations, its environmental impact needs to be considered:
Environmental Impact
- Water Pollution: Benzyl Benzoate is moderately soluble in water but can persist in aquatic environments, potentially harming aquatic organisms if released in large quantities.
- Carbon Footprint: The production of Benzyl Benzoate involves chemical synthesis, often using petrochemical sources. Its carbon footprint is moderate compared to some other synthetic chemicals, but its production does contribute to environmental degradation.
Sustainability
The sustainability of Benzyl Benzoate depends on its production methods and raw materials.
- Raw Materials: Benzyl Benzoate is synthesized from benzoic acid (a petrochemical) and benzyl alcohol, both of which have environmental costs associated with their production.
- Energy Use: The synthesis of Benzyl Benzoate requires energy for chemical reactions, which can be reduced by using renewable energy sources in manufacturing processes.
- End-of-Life Impact: When disposed of, Benzyl Benzoate is biodegradable but can take time to break down fully in aquatic environments. It does not bioaccumulate, but it is important to avoid large-scale release into water systems.
Biodegradability and Toxicity
Benzyl Benzoate is biodegradable in water and does not bioaccumulate. However, in high concentrations, it can be toxic to aquatic life.
- Toxicity: It has low toxicity to humans but may cause irritation to the skin or eyes in sensitive individuals. It can also be harmful to aquatic organisms at higher concentrations.
- Environmental Impact: Though it poses minimal long-term environmental risk when used properly, excessive release into water systems can lead to harm, particularly in freshwater ecosystems.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
There are several alternatives to Benzyl Benzoate that may offer lower environmental impacts:
- Isoamyl Laurate: A biodegradable, plant-derived emollient that mimics the texture and feel of silicones.
- Squalane (Plant-Based): A renewable, skin-conditioning emollient from olive, sugarcane, or amaranth seed.
- Coco-Caprylate/Caprate: A coconut-derived emollient with a light, non-greasy feel.
- Triethyl Citrate: A biodegradable fragrance fixative & solvent, often used in perfumes and deodorants.
- Phenylethyl Alcohol: A natural fragrance component found in roses, with mild antimicrobial benefits
- Ethyl Lauroyl Arginate HCl: A plant-based, biodegradable solubilizer that also provides mild preservation.
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