55.0
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)
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Preservative · Antimicrobial agent · Solvent · Fragrance component
PHENOL, 2-METHYL-5-(1-METHYLETHYL)- EYE IRRITATION - CAT.2 [H319]
Category
Chemical Compound
Bottom Line: Phenol, 2-methyl-5-(1-methylethyl)- is generally safe when used properly, though it can cause eye irritation in some cases.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in well-formulated cosmetic products
- applied in low concentrations
- used as directed on the label
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or eyes
- you are using other irritants
- you are pregnant or nursing
✕ Avoid If:
- you have a known allergy to phenols
- you experience irritation upon use
- you are using on broken skin
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|
Common Use Cases
3 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, sunscreens, shampoos. Use in low concentrations to minimize irritation risk.
Pharmaceutical
Topical antiseptics, pain relief creams. Follow dosage instructions to avoid adverse effects.
Household
Cleaning agents, disinfectants. Ensure proper ventilation when using products containing phenol.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Moderate
Dermal exposure to phenol can cause irritation and sensitization.
oral
oral
Risk Level: High
Ingestion of phenol can lead to severe toxicity and systemic effects.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Moderate
Inhalation of phenol vapors can irritate the respiratory tract.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Very High
Phenol is a strong irritant to the eyes and can cause serious damage.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to chemical exposure and potential for severe reactions.
- pregnant — Potential risks to fetal development from chemical exposure.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically can handle moderate exposure with precautions.
- elderly — Generally well-tolerated but should be monitored.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Moderate | Adults may have varying sensitivity to phenol based on skin condition. |
| pregnant | High | Pregnant individuals may be more susceptible to chemical exposure effects. |
| infants_children | Very High | Children's developing systems may react more severely to phenol. |
| breastfeeding | Moderate | Phenol can be excreted in breast milk; caution is advised. |
| elderly | Moderate | Elderly individuals may have increased sensitivity to irritants. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Phenol, 2-methyl-5-(1-methylethyl)- is associated with eye irritation but is generally safe in regulated uses.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eye Irritation | Irritating | Rabbit - Draize test | Category 2A | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| LD50 Oral | 300 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Moderate acute toxicity | SCCS Opinion (2018) |
| Skin Sensitization | Not sensitizing | Guinea pig - Maximization test | Low concern | FDA Overview (2020) |
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
Phenol, 2-methyl-5-(1-methylethyl)- is associated with eye irritation but is generally safe in regulated uses.
- Eye irritant (H319 classification)
- Used in cosmetics and household products
- Safety varies with concentration
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Phenol Derivatives
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 1%.
View Full Report →
SCCS
Report: Opinion on Phenol Derivatives
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Noted potential for irritation; recommended limits for use.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Phenol - Overview
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Generally recognized as safe when used appropriately.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Phenol, 2-methyl-5-(1-methylethyl)- is permitted in major jurisdictions with some restrictions in the EU. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
US
FDAPERMITTED
None
EU
European CommissionRESTRICTED
Limited to specific concentrations in cosmetics
UK
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
CA
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a chemical compound used in cosmetics and household products, known for its antiseptic properties.
Generally safe when used in low concentrations, but can cause irritation for some individuals.
Discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional if irritation persists.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-19T20:30:28.095819Z | — | 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.