55.0
ISS Score
Moderate — Score based on regulatory approval status in 4 jurisdiction(s), route-level risk assessment across multiple routes, and 3 toxicology endpoints from safety assessments.
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
solvent · intermediate · chemical reagent · flavoring agent
BENZENE, 1,1'-OXYBIS-
Molecular Formula
C12H10O
Molecular Weight
170.21 g/mol
Category
chemical compound
Bottom Line: Benzene, 1,1'-Oxybis- is typically safe in regulated amounts, though caution is advised due to potential health risks when used improperly.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in products within regulatory limits
- applied in well-ventilated areas
- used occasionally and not in large quantities
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have respiratory issues
- you are pregnant or nursing
- you are using multiple products containing benzene
✕ Avoid If:
- you have a known allergy to benzene
- you are using it in confined spaces
- you are applying it to broken skin
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C12H10O |
| Molecular Weight | 170.21 g/mol |
| Melting Point | 82.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 498.0°C |
| Solubility | Insoluble |
| Density | 1.0661 g/cm³ |
| Log P | 4.2 |
Common Use Cases
5 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, hair sprays. Use in well-ventilated areas to minimize inhalation risks.
Food
Food packaging materials. Ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
Pharmaceutical
Topical medications. Follow dosage guidelines to avoid adverse effects.
Household
Cleaning agents, solvents. Keep away from heat sources and use gloves.
Supplement
None identified. No known safe use in dietary supplements.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Moderate
Dermal exposure to benzene can lead to skin irritation and systemic absorption.
oral
oral
Risk Level: High
Ingestion of benzene poses significant health risks, including toxicity and potential carcinogenic effects.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Very High
Inhalation of benzene vapors can cause severe respiratory issues and long-term health effects.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Moderate
Eye contact with benzene can cause irritation and potential damage to ocular tissues.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- pregnant — Increased susceptibility to harmful effects on fetal development.
- infants_children — Higher vulnerability due to developing systems and lower body weight.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Generally able to tolerate limited exposure with precautions.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Moderate | Adults may have varying sensitivities to benzene based on health status and exposure duration. |
| pregnant | High | Pregnant individuals may be more susceptible to the harmful effects of benzene. |
| infants_children | Very High | Children are more vulnerable to toxic effects due to their developing systems. |
| breastfeeding | Moderate | Benzene can be transferred through breast milk, potentially affecting infants. |
| elderly | Moderate | Elderly individuals may have compromised health, increasing risk from benzene exposure. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Benzene, 1,1'-Oxybis- has been assessed for safety in various applications, with specific limits set by regulatory bodies.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 1800 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Moderate acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Rabbit - Dermal application | Not irritating | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Guinea Pig - Maximization test | No sensitization observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
Data Quality: All toxicology values are sourced from verified regulatory assessments (CIR, SCCS, ECHA REACH) following OECD test guidelines. Values are used to calculate the Ingredient Safety Score (ISS).
Scientific Evidence
Key Assessments
Benzene, 1,1'-Oxybis- has been assessed for safety in various applications, with specific limits set by regulatory bodies.
- Regulatory assessments indicate potential health risks.
- Usage limits are established to protect consumers.
- Further research is needed for long-term safety.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Benzene Derivatives
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Benzene derivatives are safe in cosmetics at specified concentrations.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Benzene in Food
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Benzene levels in food packaging must be controlled to minimize exposure.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Benzene in Consumer Products
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Benzene is regulated in consumer products to ensure safety.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Benzene, 1,1'-Oxybis- is permitted with restrictions in cosmetics and food products across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
Limited in cosmetics and food packaging
European Union
European CommissionRESTRICTED
Limited use in cosmetics and food contact materials
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentRESTRICTED
Similar to EU regulations
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
Limited in cosmetics and household products
Frequently Asked Questions
It is commonly used in cosmetics and food packaging, but safety limits apply.
Generally safe in regulated amounts, though some individuals may experience irritation.
Potential health risks exist, especially with prolonged exposure or high concentrations.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-20T02:10:45.793855Z | — | Initial data enrichment via 3-phase structured outputs |
⚠ Important Notice: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, professional, or regulatory advice. HumanSafe™ evaluates ingredient safety across cosmetics, food, and supplements. Scores are exposure-route and context-specific. Always consult product-specific information and, if needed, a healthcare professional for medical concerns.