7.0
ISS Score
B — Acceptable — low-moderate concern
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance agent · solvent · antimicrobial agent · flavoring agent
Beta-Pinenes
Also known as: Beta-Pinene, β-Pinene
Molecular Formula
C10H16
Molecular Weight
136.23 g/mol
Category
essential oil component
Bottom Line: Beta-Pinenes are generally considered safe in cosmetics and food, though some individuals may experience sensitivity.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations
- properly diluted in carrier oils
- not applied to broken skin
- used in well-ventilated areas
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or allergies
- you are pregnant or nursing
- you are using other skin irritants
- you have respiratory conditions
✕ Avoid If:
- you are allergic to pine or related plants
- you have a history of skin reactions
- you are using it in high concentrations
- you are applying it to mucous membranes
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C10H16 |
| Molecular Weight | 136.23 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -78.7°C |
| Boiling Point | 329.0°C |
| Solubility | Insoluble (in ethanol) |
| Log P | 3.1 |
Common Use Cases
5 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, shampoos, soaps. Use in low concentrations to minimize irritation.
Food
Flavoring agents, herbal teas. Generally recognized as safe when used appropriately.
Pharmaceutical
Topical analgesics, cough syrups. Consult a healthcare provider for medicinal use.
Household
Cleaning products, air fresheners. Ensure good ventilation when using products.
Supplement
Dietary supplements, herbal extracts. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Beta-Pinenes are generally well tolerated on skin, but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of Beta-Pinenes can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort in some cases.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation of Beta-Pinenes is typically safe, but may cause respiratory 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 sensitivity to potential irritants and allergens.
- pregnant — Limited data on safety during pregnancy.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated in healthy adults.
- elderly — Generally safe but should be monitored for sensitivity.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally healthy adults can tolerate Beta-Pinenes without significant issues. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on the effects of Beta-Pinenes during pregnancy. |
| infants_children | High | Children may be more sensitive to the effects of Beta-Pinenes. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated, but monitor for sensitivity. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Beta-Pinenes are widely used in various products, with moderate safety assessments indicating low toxicity.
| 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 | Human patch test | No significant irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Human sensitization study | No sensitization reactions reported | 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
Beta-Pinenes are widely used in various products, with moderate safety assessments indicating low toxicity.
- Commonly found in essential oils and food flavorings.
- Generally low toxicity but can cause irritation.
- Sensitivity varies among individuals.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Beta-Pinenes
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Beta-Pinenes are safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Beta-Pinenes
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Considered safe for use in food at specified limits.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Ingredients and Their Safety
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Beta-Pinenes are 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
Beta-Pinenes are natural compounds found in various essential oils, known for their aromatic properties.
Generally, Beta-Pinenes are safe for skin use in low concentrations, but sensitivity can occur.
Yes, they are generally recognized as safe for ingestion in food products when used appropriately.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T04:28:54.353759Z | — | 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.