7.0
ISS Score
B — 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)
—
fragrance agent · solvent · antimicrobial agent · anti-inflammatory agent
Alpha-Pinene
Also known as: α-Pinene, Alpha-Pinene, Pinene
Molecular Weight
136.24 g/mol
Category
terpene
Bottom Line: Alpha-pinene 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 in cosmetic formulations
- Ingested as part of food flavoring
- Used in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation issues
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- You have a history of allergies to terpenes
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have respiratory conditions like asthma
✕ Avoid If:
- You are sensitive to pine or related compounds
- Using on broken or irritated skin
- Ingesting in large amounts outside of food products
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | 136.24 g/mol |
| Solubility | soluble in organic solvents, insoluble in water |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, shampoos, soaps. Generally safe in low concentrations; patch test recommended.
Food
Flavoring agents, herbal teas. Safe when used as a food flavoring; avoid excessive amounts.
Pharmaceutical
Topical ointments, inhalants. Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider for medical use.
Supplement
Essential oils, herbal supplements. Consult a healthcare professional before use, especially in high doses.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Alpha-pinene is generally safe for skin contact but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of alpha-pinene can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort; caution is advised.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation of alpha-pinene is typically safe, but high concentrations may irritate respiratory pathways.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Contact with eyes can cause significant irritation; immediate rinsing is recommended.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to essential oils; potential for adverse effects.
- pregnant — Limited data on safety during pregnancy; caution is advised.
- sensitive_skin — Higher risk of irritation and allergic reactions.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Generally well tolerated; however, individual sensitivities may vary.
- elderly — Generally well tolerated, but monitor for sensitivity.
- breastfeeding — Use with caution and consult a healthcare provider.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated; however, individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on safety during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | Very High | Higher sensitivity to essential oils; potential for adverse effects. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data; potential for transfer through breast milk. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated, but monitor for sensitivity. |
| sensitive_skin | High | Higher risk of irritation and allergic reactions. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Alpha-pinene is a terpene with various applications in cosmetics and food, showing low toxicity but potential irritant properties.
| 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 | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Human clinical study | No sensitization reactions reported | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
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
Alpha-pinene is a terpene with various applications in cosmetics and food, showing low toxicity but potential irritant properties.
- Commonly used in cosmetics and food flavoring.
- Low acute toxicity in animal studies.
- May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Alpha-Pinene
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Alpha-pinene is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Alpha-Pinene
Year: 2016
Conclusion: Alpha-pinene is safe as a food flavoring agent within established limits.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Ingredients and Colors
Year: 2021
Conclusion: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Alpha-pinene is permitted for use in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
US
FDAPERMITTED
None
EU
European CommissionPERMITTED
None
UK
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
CA
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Alpha-pinene is generally safe in cosmetics, but patch testing is recommended for sensitive skin.
Alpha-pinene is safe as a food flavoring, but avoid excessive consumption.
Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions; use with caution.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-19T17:32:25.137933Z | — | 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.