6.0
ISS Score
B — Acceptable — low-moderate concern
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
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Fragrance agent · Flavoring agent · Solvent · Potential antimicrobial agent
3-Carene
Also known as: 3-Carene, Carene, 1-Methyl-4-isopropyl-1-cyclopentene
Molecular Formula
C10H16
Molecular Weight
136.23 g/mol
Category
Terpene
Bottom Line: 3-Carene is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and food, though its effects can vary based on concentration and individual sensitivity.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- Used in low concentrations in cosmetic formulations
- Ingested as part of food products within regulatory limits
- Not combined with known irritants or allergens
- Used by individuals without known sensitivities
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- You have sensitive skin or allergies
- You are pregnant or nursing
- You are using other products containing terpenes
- You have a history of respiratory issues
✕ Avoid If:
- You are allergic to terpenes or related compounds
- You have a known sensitivity to 3-Carene
- You are using it in high concentrations without guidance
- You are applying it to broken or irritated skin
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C10H16 |
| Molecular Weight | 136.23 g/mol |
| Melting Point | 25.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 175.0°C |
| Solubility | Slightly soluble (in ethanol) |
| Log P | 2.8 |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, shampoos, body lotions. Use in moderation and patch test for sensitivity.
Food
Flavoring agents, herbal teas. Generally safe in food, but check for allergies.
Pharmaceutical
Topical ointments, aromatherapy oils. Consult a healthcare provider for medicinal use.
Supplement
Herbal supplements, essential oils. Follow dosage recommendations and consult a doctor.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
3-Carene is generally considered safe for skin contact in cosmetic formulations.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of 3-Carene may pose moderate risks, particularly in high doses.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure to 3-Carene is typically low risk but should be approached with caution.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Eye contact with 3-Carene can cause irritation and should be avoided.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to potential irritants and allergens.
- pregnant — Limited safety data during pregnancy necessitates caution.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal adverse effects.
- elderly — Generally safe but should be monitored for sensitivity.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated in adults, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on the effects of 3-Carene during pregnancy. |
| infants_children | High | Children may be more sensitive to the effects of 3-Carene. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on the safety of 3-Carene during breastfeeding. |
| elderly | Low | Elderly individuals may have varying sensitivities. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
3-Carene has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food applications, showing low toxicity in studies.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2018) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Human patch test | No significant irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2018) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Human sensitization study | No sensitization reactions reported | 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
3-Carene has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food applications, showing low toxicity in studies.
- Generally recognized as safe in low concentrations.
- Limited data on long-term effects.
- Potential allergenic properties in sensitive individuals.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of 3-Carene
Year: 2018
Conclusion: 3-Carene is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 0.5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on 3-Carene
Year: 2019
Conclusion: 3-Carene is acceptable as a food flavoring substance.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status
Year: 2020
Conclusion: 3-Carene is not listed as a food additive but is generally recognized as safe.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
3-Carene is generally permitted in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAGENERALLY RECOGNIZED AS SAFE
None
European Union
European CommissionACCEPTED AS FOOD FLAVORING
Use within specified limits
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED IN COSMETICS AND FOOD
None
Canada
Health CanadaNOT SPECIFICALLY LISTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
3-Carene is generally safe for skin use in low concentrations, but patch testing is recommended.
3-Carene is considered safe for ingestion in food products, but check for allergies first.
Potential side effects may include skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T03:25:37.731018Z | — | 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.