9.0
ISS Score
A — Good — low hazard
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance ingredient · flavoring agent · solvent · fixative
Citronellyl Formate
Also known as: Citronellyl Acetate, Citronellyl Formate Ester
Molecular Formula
C11H20O2
Molecular Weight
184.27 g/mol
Category
fragrance
Bottom Line: Citronellyl Formate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and food, though some individuals may experience sensitivities.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations
- not applied to broken skin
- not used by individuals with known allergies to similar compounds
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or allergies
- using in products for children
- exposed to sunlight after application
✕ Avoid If:
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you have a history of skin reactions to fragrances
- you are using other potent allergens
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C11H20O2 |
| Molecular Weight | 184.27 g/mol |
| Boiling Point | 235.0°C |
| Solubility | 1 ml in 3 ml 80% alcohol remains in soln to 10 ml (in ethanol) |
| Log P | 3.8 |
Common Use Cases
5 Categories
Cosmetic
Perfumes, lotions, shampoos. Generally safe in cosmetics; patch test recommended.
Food
Flavoring agents, beverages. Used in food flavoring; ensure compliance with local regulations.
Pharmaceutical
Topical creams, ointments. Used in formulations; monitor for allergic reactions.
Household
Air fresheners, cleaning products. Safe for household use; avoid inhalation of concentrated forms.
Supplement
Flavoring in dietary supplements. Generally safe; check for individual sensitivities.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Citronellyl Formate is generally well tolerated on skin, with low irritation potential.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of Citronellyl Formate may cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure is typically low risk, but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Contact with eyes can cause significant irritation and discomfort.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher risk due to sensitivity to chemical exposures.
- pregnant — Limited data necessitates caution during pregnancy.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with low risk of irritation.
- elderly — Generally well tolerated, but monitor for sensitivity.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on safety during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | High | Higher sensitivity to chemicals; potential for adverse reactions. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; use with caution. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated, but may have increased sensitivity. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Citronellyl Formate is evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food, with moderate concerns for sensitive individuals.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Human patch test | No significant irritation observed | SCCS Opinion (2015) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Human repeated insult patch test | No sensitization reactions | EFSA Opinion (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
Citronellyl Formate is evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food, with moderate concerns for sensitive individuals.
- Commonly used as a fragrance in various products.
- Generally recognized as safe in low concentrations.
- Potential for skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Citronellyl Formate
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 0.5%.
View Full Report →
SCCS
Report: Opinion on Citronellyl Formate
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Considered safe for use in cosmetic products.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Flavoring Substances
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Acceptable daily intake established; safe for food use.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Citronellyl Formate is permitted for use in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
None
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
None
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
While generally safe, individuals with sensitive skin should perform a patch test before use.
Yes, it is permitted as a flavoring agent in food, but should be used within regulatory limits.
Discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional if irritation occurs.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T04:53:50.391813Z | — | 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.