66.0
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 · fragrance ingredient · emollient · flavoring agent
HEXANOIC ACID, ETHYL ESTER
Molecular Weight
130.19 g/mol
Category
ester
Bottom Line: Hexanoic acid, ethyl ester is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and food, though caution is advised for sensitive individuals.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- Used in concentrations below 5%
- Formulated in products for external use only
- Not used by individuals with known allergies to esters
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- You have sensitive skin or allergies
- Using in combination with other active ingredients
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
✕ Avoid If:
- You have a known allergy to hexanoic acid or its derivatives
- Using on broken or irritated skin
- Consuming in large quantities without guidance
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | 130.19 g/mol |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, sunscreens, hair conditioners. Generally safe for topical use; avoid sensitive areas.
Food
Flavoring agents, food additives. Considered safe in food at regulated levels.
Pharmaceutical
Topical ointments, transdermal patches. Used in formulations; follow dosage guidelines.
Supplement
Dietary supplements, nutraceuticals. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Hexanoic acid, ethyl ester is generally safe for skin contact but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of hexanoic acid, ethyl ester may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort; use caution.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure is typically low risk but may cause respiratory irritation in high concentrations.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Contact with eyes can cause significant irritation; avoid direct exposure.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher risk of irritation and adverse reactions.
- pregnant — Limited safety data; caution advised.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal risk.
- breastfeeding — Generally low risk but should be used cautiously.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated in adults; monitor for irritation. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on safety during pregnancy; use with caution. |
| infants_children | High | Higher sensitivity to chemicals; potential for irritation. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; use cautiously. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Hexanoic acid, ethyl ester has low toxicity and is generally safe for use in cosmetics and food.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Rabbit - Dermal application | No significant irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Sensitization | non-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
Hexanoic acid, ethyl ester has low toxicity and is generally safe for use in cosmetics and food.
- Low acute toxicity observed in animal studies.
- No significant irritant effects reported.
- Widely used in cosmetic formulations.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Hexanoic Acid and Its Esters
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Hexanoic Acid
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Considered safe as a food additive within specified limits.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Permitted for use in food applications.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Hexanoic acid, ethyl ester 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
Generally, it is safe for topical application in cosmetics, but check for allergies.
Yes, it is permitted as a food additive, but follow recommended limits.
Discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional if irritation persists.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-19T20:10:17.556201Z | — | 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.