66.0
ISS Score
Moderate — Score based on regulatory approval status in 4 jurisdiction(s), route-level risk assessment across multiple routes, and 4 toxicology endpoints from safety assessments.
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance ingredient · solvent · preservative · emollient
BENZENEMETHANOL, 4-METHOXY-, ACETATE
Category
chemical compound
Bottom Line: Generally considered safe in cosmetics and food, though caution is advised for sensitive individuals.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- Used in low concentrations
- Formulated for specific applications
- Not used on broken skin
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- You have sensitive skin
- You are pregnant or nursing
- You are using other active ingredients
✕ Avoid If:
- You have known allergies to similar compounds
- You experience irritation upon use
- You are using on children without guidance
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, sunscreens, hair conditioners. Generally safe for topical use, but patch test recommended.
Food
Flavoring agents, food additives. Generally recognized as safe when used appropriately.
Pharmaceutical
Topical ointments, prescription creams. Use under medical supervision, especially for sensitive individuals.
Supplement
Dietary supplements, herbal products. Consult healthcare provider before use, especially if pregnant.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Dermal exposure to 4-Methoxybenzenemethanol acetate is generally low risk for skin contact.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of this compound may pose moderate risks, particularly in large amounts.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure is typically low to moderate risk, depending on concentration and duration.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Eye contact with this compound can cause significant irritation and should be avoided.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to chemical exposure may lead to adverse effects.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with proper use.
- elderly — Generally well tolerated, but health status should be monitored.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated in adults with no significant health issues. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | Very High | Children may be more sensitive to chemical exposure. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on transfer through breast milk; caution is recommended. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated, but individual health factors should be considered. |
Toxicology Data
4 Endpoints
Safety assessments indicate that 4-Methoxybenzenemethanol acetate is generally safe for use in cosmetics and food applications.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | >5000 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2018) |
| Skin Irritation | Non-irritating | Rabbit - Dermal application | No irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2018) |
| Sensitization | Not sensitizing | Guinea pig - Maximization test | No sensitization observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2018) |
| Eye Irritation | Mild irritation | Rabbit - Eye application | Mild irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2018) |
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
Safety assessments indicate that 4-Methoxybenzenemethanol acetate is generally safe for use in cosmetics and food applications.
- Low toxicity in animal studies
- No significant irritation reported
- Regulatory reviews support safe use
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review)
Report: Safety Assessment of 4-Methoxybenzenemethanol Acetate
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA (European Food Safety Authority)
Report: Scientific Opinion on 4-Methoxybenzenemethanol Acetate
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Considered safe as a food flavoring agent at specified limits.
View Full Report →
FDA (Food and Drug Administration)
Report: Regulatory Status of 4-Methoxybenzenemethanol Acetate
Year: 2021
Conclusion: Permitted for use in food and cosmetics under specific guidelines.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Regulatory status is generally favorable across major jurisdictions, with permitted uses in cosmetics and food. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
None
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
Use in food flavoring limited to specific concentrations
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally safe for topical applications, but patch testing is recommended for sensitive skin.
Consult with a healthcare provider before using products with this ingredient during pregnancy.
While generally safe, some individuals may experience irritation or allergic reactions; discontinue use if this occurs.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-19T18:01:37.339902Z | — | 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.