7.0
ISS Score
A- — Good — low to minimal hazard
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance ingredient · solvent · flavoring agent · emollient
Hexyl Butyrate
Molecular Formula
C10H20O2
Molecular Weight
172.26 g/mol
Category
ester
Bottom Line: Hexyl Butyrate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and food, though individual sensitivities may vary.
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 topical products
✕ Avoid If:
- you have a known allergy to esters
- you experience irritation or allergic reactions
- you are using on broken skin
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C10H20O2 |
| Molecular Weight | 172.26 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -78.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 204.0°C |
| Log P | 3.3 |
Common Use Cases
5 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, lotions, shampoos. Generally safe in cosmetic products when used as directed.
Food
Flavoring agents, beverages. Considered safe for food use in regulated amounts.
Pharmaceutical
Topical creams, ointments. Used in formulations; monitor for skin reactions.
Household
Air fresheners, cleaning products. Safe for household use; avoid direct skin contact.
Supplement
Flavoring in dietary supplements. Generally safe when used in food-grade quality.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Hexyl Butyrate is generally well tolerated on the skin, with low irritation potential.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of Hexyl Butyrate may cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure is typically low risk, but may cause 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 risk of irritation and adverse reactions.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal side effects.
- elderly — Generally well tolerated, but individual responses may vary.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | High | Higher sensitivity to chemicals; potential for adverse reactions. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; use with caution. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated, but monitor for sensitivities. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Hexyl Butyrate is assessed for safety in cosmetics and food, showing low toxicity and good safety profiles.
| 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 irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Human sensitization study | No sensitization reactions | 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
Hexyl Butyrate is assessed for safety in cosmetics and food, showing low toxicity and good safety profiles.
- Low acute toxicity in animal studies.
- Generally recognized as safe in food applications.
- No significant adverse effects reported in cosmetic use.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Hexyl Butyrate
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 10%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Hexyl Butyrate
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Considered safe for use as a food flavoring agent.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Permitted for use in food products under specified conditions.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Hexyl Butyrate 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, those with sensitive skin should patch test products containing Hexyl Butyrate.
Yes, it is permitted as a flavoring agent in food under specific regulations.
Discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional if irritation occurs.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T06:12:21.066121Z | — | 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.