67.0
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)
—
fragrance ingredient · flavoring agent · solvent · stabilizer
3-Propylidenephthalide
Molecular Formula
C11H10O2
Molecular Weight
174.20 g/mol
Category
chemical compound
Bottom Line: 3-Propylidenephthalide is generally considered safe in cosmetics and food, though its effects can vary based on concentration and individual sensitivity.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations
- applied to intact skin
- not combined with known irritants
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin
- you are pregnant or nursing
- you are using other active ingredients
✕ Avoid If:
- you have a known allergy to phthalides
- you experience irritation or allergic reactions
- you are using on broken skin
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C11H10O2 |
| Molecular Weight | 174.20 g/mol |
| Boiling Point | 343.0°C |
| Solubility | soluble (in ethanol) |
| Log P | 2.6 |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, serums, body lotions. Use in low concentrations to minimize irritation risk.
Food
Flavoring agents, food additives. Generally recognized as safe when used appropriately.
Pharmaceutical
Topical medications, prescription creams. Consult a healthcare provider for use in medications.
Supplement
Herbal supplements, dietary aids. Use under guidance, especially if pregnant or nursing.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Dermal exposure to 3-Propylidenephthalide is generally considered low risk for skin contact.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of 3-Propylidenephthalide may pose moderate risks based on limited studies.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure is typically low to moderate risk, depending on concentration and duration.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Insufficient Data
Limited data exists on ocular exposure, making risk assessment challenging.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to chemical exposures may lead to increased risk.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal adverse effects.
- elderly — Generally well tolerated, but caution is advised.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated in adults with no significant adverse effects reported. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on safety during pregnancy; potential risks should be considered. |
| infants_children | High | Children may be more sensitive to chemical exposures; caution is advised. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; potential risks are unclear. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
3-Propylidenephthalide has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food applications, showing low toxicity.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 5000 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Rabbit - Draize test | No irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Sensitization | not 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
3-Propylidenephthalide has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food applications, showing low toxicity.
- Low acute toxicity in animal studies.
- Generally safe for cosmetic use at low concentrations.
- Limited data on long-term effects.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of 3-Propylidenephthalide
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 1%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on 3-Propylidenephthalide
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Considered safe as a food flavoring agent.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Generally recognized as safe for use in food.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
3-Propylidenephthalide 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 use caution.
Consult a healthcare provider before using products containing this ingredient during pregnancy.
Possible side effects include skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-29T06:54:44.344795Z | — | 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.