Benzyl Salicylate is a synthetic compound commonly used in cosmetic formulations for its fragrance and UV-absorbing properties. As an ester of benzyl alcohol and salicylic acid, it serves multiple functions in personal care products, including acting as a solvent and enhancing the stability of fragrances.
Its ability to absorb UV radiation makes it a popular ingredient in sunscreens and other sun care products, contributing to skin protection. Additionally, Benzyl Salicylate is often included in formulations for its mild anti-inflammatory properties, making it a versatile component in various cosmetic applications.
CAS Number: 118-58-1
Molecular Formula: C14H12O3
Uses of Benzyl Salicylate in Cosmetics
Functional role in cosmetics:
- Benzyl Salicylate is used as a base, flavor, fragrance, moisturizing/humectant, or opacifying agent.
- It also used as preservative/stabilizer, solvent, and UV inhibitor agent in cosmetics.
Other uses:
- Used in food as a flavouring agent.
Cosmetic Products Containing Benzyl Salicylate
Recent products using Benzyl Salicylate in their cosmetic formulations
- BE BEAUTY Sakura Body Butter
- LACURA Healthy Glow Vitamin C Toner
- Natura Estonica Bio Matt Face Tonic
- Hidratei S.H.R.P.
- Le salon Oleo De Babosa
- Ombra Kids Sonnenspray Lsf 30 Sonnenschutz
- YSL Beauty Black Opium Eau De Parfum
- Atelier des ors Nuda
- Bath & Body Works Black Cherry Merlot Hand Cream
- Bath & Body Works Body Lotion Japanese Cherry Blossom
- Bath & Body Works Endless Weekend Body Lotion
- Coiffance Elixir
- Giorgio Armani Face Fabric Foundation
- Giorgio Armani Sì Eau De Parfum
- Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia Eau De Parfum
- Jean Paul Gaultier La Belle Le Parfum
- Kryolan Translucent Powder
- Narciso Her
- Pond’s Powder
Top companies using Benzyl Salicylate in their cosmetic products
- BE BEAUTY
- LACURA
- Natura Estonica
- Hidratei
- Le salon
- Ombra
- YSL Beauty
- Atelier des ors
- Bath & Body Works
- Coiffance
- Giorgio Armani
- Gucci
- Jean Paul Gaultier
- Kryolan
- Narciso
- Pond’s
- Pretty by Flormar
Regulatory Considerations for Using Benzyl Salicylate in Cosmetic Formulations
Few regulatory considerations are to be taken into account before using Benzyl Salicylate as an ingredient. Given below is the list of those regulations:
FDA Requirements
Benzyl Salicylate is permitted as a synthetic flavoring substance and adjuvant in human food. It must be used in the minimum quantity required to produce its intended effect, following good manufacturing practices, and may be combined with other safe or regulated flavoring substances.
REACH Registered Substance
Benzyl Salicylate is registered under REACH with active status as of April 7, 2022.
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status
Benzoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, phenylmethyl ester (Benzyl Salicylate) does not have individual approval but may be used under an appropriate group standard.
The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals
Listed as Benzoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, phenylmethyl ester in the Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals.
California Safe Cosmetics Program (CSCP) Reportable Ingredient
Classified as a fragrance allergen under Annex III of EU Cosmetics Regulation No. 1223/2009. Reporting is required if present at concentrations ≥0.01% in rinse-off products or ≥0.001% in leave-on products.
Alternatives of Benzyl Salicylate and Comparative Analysis
Given below is the list of alternative ingredients that can be used in place of Benzyl Salicylate in cosmetic formulations:
- Coumarin
- Linalool
- Geraniol
- Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
Comparative analysis of Benzyl Salicylate alternative ingredients:
| Ingredients | Strengths | Limitations | Efficacy | Cost | Stability | Compatibility | Safety |
| Coumarin | Broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity Effective preservative for cosmetics and personal care products Stable under a wide range of pH and temperature conditions Less sensitizing compared to bronopol | Potential irritation in high concentrations Not effective against all fungal strains (may require combination with other preservatives) | High as a preservative | Moderate | Moderate (requires stabilization in formulations) | Good in fragrance-heavy formulations | Requires careful concentration management due to sensitization risks |
| Linalool | Boosts efficacy of other preservatives (synergistic effect) Mild antimicrobial properties Improves skin feel and acts as a humectant | Not effective as a standalone preservative Requires combination with stronger antimicrobials | Moderate as a preservative booster | Moderate | Low (requires antioxidants for stabilization) | Good in fragrance-heavy products; limited for sensitive skin formulations | Potential allergen; requires stabilization |
| Geraniol | Natural origin (found in fruits and teas) Effective antimicrobial properties, especially against bacteria Widely used in natural and clean beauty formulations | Can cause irritation or sensitization at high concentrations Limited efficacy against fungi (requires combination with other agents) | Moderate as an antimicrobial agent | Low to moderate | Low (oxidizes easily) | Good with fragrances; limited for sensitive skin | Potential allergen |
| Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate | High efficacy in absorbing UVB rays Stable in formulations Widely used in sunscreens | Limited fragrance properties Not suitable for leave-on products targeting sensitive skin | High UV absorption | Moderate | High | Good with sunscreens and UV-sensitive ingredients | Generally safe but not ideal for sensitive skin |
How Benzyl Salicylate Works in Formulations
Benzyl Salicylate is a versatile ingredient in cosmetics, serving as both a fragrance component and a UV absorber. It enhances the longevity of fragrance profiles while providing light protection to prevent product degradation, making it essential in a variety of cosmetic and personal care products.
Ideal Concentration and Benefits in Different Formulations
Perfumes and Fragrances
Benzyl Salicylate is widely used in floral perfumes as a fixative and solvent, especially in blends like jasmine, lilac, and carnation.
- Concentration: 0.1%–1%
- Benefit: Enhances fragrance longevity, ensuring that the scent lasts longer throughout the day. Ideal for high-end floral fragrances and perfumes.
Sunscreens and Skin Care Products
In sunscreens and skin care products, Benzyl Salicylate acts as a UV absorber, protecting the formulation from light degradation.
- Concentration: Typically below 0.5%
- Benefit: Helps stabilize the formulation and enhances the effectiveness of UV filters in protecting the skin from sun damage.
Hair Care Products (e.g., Shampoos)
Benzyl Salicylate is also used in shampoos and conditioners for its fragrance and UV stabilization benefits.
- Concentration: Typically below 0.5%
- Benefit: Adds a pleasant fragrance and provides mild UV protection for the hair. Helps maintain the appearance of hair and protect it from sun-induced damage.
Compatibility with Other Ingredients
Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients but may require stabilization in high-temperature processes. Identified as a potential allergen; concentrations must comply with regulatory limits (e.g., IFRA standards). May impart a faint floral scent to formulations.
Stability and Shelf Life
Benzyl Salicylate is stable under normal storage conditions but should be handled carefully to preserve its effectiveness.
- Shelf life: 12–24 months
- Best storage: Keep in airtight containers, away from heat and light to prevent degradation of the ingredient. Use sealed bottles or containers that minimize exposure to air for optimal preservation.
Formulation Challenges and Troubleshooting
Benzyl Salicylate presents several formulation challenges due to its allergenic potential and sensitivity to regulatory limits:
Allergenic Potential
Benzyl Salicylate is a known allergen and may cause sensitization in some individuals.
Solution: Ensure concentrations comply with IFRA standards (e.g., below 0.001% for leave-on products). Include appropriate labeling.
Sensory Interference
The floral scent of Benzyl Salicylate may interfere with desired fragrance profiles.
Solution: Balance with complementary fragrance components or use at lower concentrations.
Packaging Compatibility
Benzyl Salicylate is generally compatible with most packaging materials but requires protection from light.
Solution: Use opaque or UV-resistant containers to maintain product stability.
Regulatory Compliance
Ensure compliance with local regulations regarding maximum allowable concentrations and labeling requirements.
Solution: Consult regulatory guidelines for specific applications and regions.
Is Benzyl Salicylate Safe in Cosmetics?
Safety reports for Benzyl Salicylate are given below:
- Safety Assessment of Benzyl Salicylate As Used in Cosmetics. Download PDF
Environmental and Sustainability Impact
Benzyl Salicylate is a synthetic ester widely used in cosmetics for its fragrance and UV-absorbing properties. Its use raises environmental and sustainability considerations:
Environmental Impact
- Water Pollution: Benzyl Salicylate is biodegradable but may pose risks to aquatic organisms due to its potential toxicity at higher concentrations.
- Carbon Footprint: The production of Benzyl Salicylate involves chemical synthesis, which can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable manufacturing practices can help reduce its environmental impact.
Sustainability
The sustainability of Benzyl Salicylate depends on its production methods and disposal practices.
- Raw Materials: Typically synthesized from benzyl alcohol and salicylic acid, which are derived from petrochemical sources or natural origins. Greener synthesis methods could improve sustainability.
- Energy Use: Manufacturing requires moderate energy input. Cleaner production methods could reduce its environmental footprint.
- End-of-Life Impact: Benzyl Salicylate degrades into simpler compounds in the environment but may contribute to localized ecological effects if improperly disposed of.
Biodegradability and Toxicity
Benzyl Salicylate is biodegradable but has been identified as a potential allergen and sensitizer in humans. It may also exhibit mild aquatic toxicity.
Ammonia Toxicity: Not applicable. Benzyl Salicylate does not release ammonia or similar harmful byproducts during decomposition.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
While Benzyl Salicylate is widely used, alternative fragrance ingredients and UV absorbers may offer greener options:
- Ethylhexyl Salicylate: A UV absorber with similar properties but potentially lower allergenic risks.
- Natural Essential Oils: Plant-derived oils such as lavender or jasmine can provide fragrance without synthetic processing.
- Non-Fragrance UV Stabilizers: Ingredients like titanium dioxide can stabilize formulations without contributing to allergenic concerns.
Benzyl Salicylate Side Effects
Benzyl Salicylate is a compound that exhibits low potential for inducing hypersensitivity reactions in humans. In vitro studies have demonstrated its estrogenic activity, showing higher estrogenic effects than bisphenol A. Specifically, it activated the human estrogen receptor alpha in laboratory assays and influenced the proliferation of MCF7 breast cancer cells.
In animal studies, Benzyl Salicylate did not cause irritation in isolated bovine corneas but did elicit erythema in rabbit skin tests. Uterotrophic bioassays in immature rodents indicated a significant increase in uterine weights at various dosages, suggesting estrogenic effects.
Interactions
Benzyl Salicylate can react with chlorine used in swimming pool water disinfection. In chlorinated water, Benzyl Salicylate undergoes chemical transformation, forming disinfection by-products (DBPs), mainly chlorinated derivatives. The reaction follows pseudo-first order kinetics with a half-life of approximately 182 minutes. These DBPs are formed through the substitution of hydrogen atoms in the Benzyl Salicylate structure with chlorine, raising potential health concerns related to long-term exposure in swimming environments.
Human Toxicity Excerpts
Benzyl Salicylate, along with benzyl benzoate and butylphenylmethylpropional (Lilial), is used in body care products applied near the human breast. Studies have shown that all three compounds exhibit estrogenic activity in human breast cancer (MCF7) cells. At very high concentrations, they partially displaced natural estrogen from estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ).
They also increased the expression of estrogen-responsive genes and promoted the proliferation of estrogen-dependent MCF7 cells, suggesting an estrogen receptor-mediated mechanism. Although their estrogenic effect was weaker compared to natural estrogen (17β-estradiol) over short exposure periods, prolonged exposure (up to 35 days) resulted in a level of cell proliferation similar to that induced by natural estrogen.
Non-Human Toxicity Values
The oral LD50 of Benzyl Salicylate in rats is 2227 mg/kg body weight.
Antidote and Emergency Treatment
In cases of severe exposure, advanced airway management may be required, including orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for patients who are unconscious, experiencing severe respiratory distress, or have pulmonary edema. Positive-pressure ventilation using a bag valve mask may be helpful.
Drug therapy should be considered for pulmonary edema, and a beta-agonist like albuterol may be used for severe bronchospasm. Cardiac rhythm should be monitored, with treatment for arrhythmias as needed. Intravenous fluids (D5W at minimal flow to keep the vein open) should be administered, using 0.9% saline or lactated Ringer’s solution if hypovolemia is suspected.
Fluid should be given cautiously in cases of hypotension, and vasopressors may be considered if blood pressure remains low despite adequate fluid volume. Careful monitoring for fluid overload is essential. Seizures should be treated with diazepam or lorazepam. For eye exposure, irrigation with proparacaine hydrochloride can assist in decontamination.
Properties of Benzyl Salicylate
Chemical Identifiers
| EC Number | 204-262-9 |
| UNII | WAO5MNK9TU |
| InChIKey | ZCTQGTTXIYCGGC-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| SMILES | C1=CC=C(C=C1)COC(=O)C2=CC=CC=C2O |
| IUPAC Name | benzyl 2-hydroxybenzoate |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C14H12O3/c15-13-9-5-4-8-12(13)14(16)17-10-11-6-2-1-3-7-11/h1-9,15H,10H2 |
Physical and Chemical Properties
Benzyl Salicylate appears as a clear, colorless liquid. It has a melting point that is close to ambient conditions, specifically ranging from 18 to 20°C. This compound is known for its use in various applications, including as a fragrance ingredient and UV filter in cosmetic formulations. Its chemical structure consists of a benzyl group attached to salicylic acid, contributing to its unique properties.
| Property | Value |
| Odor | Faint sweet odor |
| Density | 1.175 at 68°F – Denser than water; will sink |
| Color/Form | Thick liquid |
| Solubility | Slightly soluble |
| Flash Point | 180°C (356°F) |
| Boiling Point | 406°F at 26 mmHg |
| Melting Point | 75°F |
| Decomposition | When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes. |
| Vapor Density | 7.8X10-5 mm Hg at 25°C /OECD Guideline 104 (Vapour Pressure Curve) |
| Stability/Shelf Life | 1.580-1.581 |
| Stability/Shelf Life | Stable under recommended storage conditions. |
| Kovats Retention Index | 1860 |
| Other Experimental Properties | log Kow = 4.0 at 35 °C |
Structural Properties
Benzyl Salicylate is a compound with a moderate level of complexity, consisting of 17 heavy atoms. It has a molecular weight of about 228 g/mol and is chemically neutral with no formal charge. This substance contains a few key functional groups, including a hydrogen bond donor and three hydrogen bond acceptors.
It features a low degree of steric hindrance, with no defined stereocenters, making its structure relatively straightforward. The compound’s polar surface area indicates its potential interactions with water, and it has four bonds that are capable of rotation, allowing for some flexibility in its structure.
| Property | Value |
| XLogP3 | 3.2 |
| Complexity | 246 |
| Exact Mass | 228.078644241 g/mol |
| Formal Charge | 0 |
| Heavy Atom Count | 17 |
| Molecular Weight | 228.24 g/mol |
| Monoisotopic Mass | 228.078644241 g/mol |
| Isotope Atom Count | 0 |
| Rotatable Bond Count | 4 |
| Compound Is Canonicalized | Yes |
| Hydrogen Bond Donor Count | 1 |
| Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count | 3 |
| Covalently-Bonded Unit Count | 1 |
| Topological Polar Surface Area | 46.5 Ų |
| Defined Atom Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Defined Bond Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count | 0 |
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