6.0
ISS Score
B — Acceptable — low-moderate concern
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
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solvent · fragrance ingredient · intermediate · chemical reagent
Methylheptanone
Molecular Formula
C8H16O
Molecular Weight
128.21 g/mol
Category
solvent
Bottom Line: Methylheptanone is generally considered safe for use in various applications, though caution is advised due to potential irritant properties.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in well-ventilated areas
- concentration is within recommended limits
- proper safety equipment is worn
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or allergies
- using in combination with other solvents
- exposed to high temperatures
✕ Avoid If:
- you are pregnant or nursing
- you have a known allergy to ketones
- using in poorly ventilated spaces
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C8H16O |
| Molecular Weight | 128.21 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -70.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 315.0°C |
| Solubility | Insoluble |
| Log P | 2.2 |
Common Use Cases
5 Categories
Cosmetic
Nail polish removers, fragrances. Use in well-ventilated areas to minimize inhalation risks.
Pharmaceutical
Topical solutions, drug formulations. Follow dosage guidelines to avoid adverse effects.
Household
Cleaning agents, paint thinners. Ensure proper ventilation during use.
Food
Flavoring agents, food additives. Generally recognized as safe in low concentrations.
Supplement
Dietary supplements. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Methylheptanone is generally well tolerated on skin, with low irritation potential.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of methylheptanone may cause gastrointestinal irritation and other effects.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure may lead to respiratory irritation, but effects are typically mild.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Contact with eyes can cause significant irritation and potential damage.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to chemical exposure.
- pregnant — Potential for increased sensitivity and effects on fetal development.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with proper use.
- elderly — Generally well tolerated, but caution is advised.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Adults typically have a higher tolerance for chemical exposure. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Pregnant individuals may have increased sensitivity to chemicals. |
| infants_children | High | Children's developing systems may react more strongly to chemicals. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on transfer through breast milk. |
| elderly | Low | Elderly individuals may have varying sensitivities. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Methylheptanone has been evaluated for safety in various applications, showing low toxicity but potential irritant effects.
| 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 | Rabbit - Draize test | Not a skin irritant | 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
Methylheptanone has been evaluated for safety in various applications, showing low toxicity but potential irritant effects.
- Low acute toxicity in animal studies.
- Potential skin irritant in sensitive individuals.
- Regulatory assessments indicate safe use in cosmetics and food.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Methylheptanone
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Methylheptanone is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Methylheptanone
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Considered safe as a food flavoring agent at specified limits.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Regulatory Status of Methylheptanone
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Permitted for use in food and cosmetics under specific conditions.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Methylheptanone is permitted for use in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions with specific guidelines. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
US
FDAPERMITTED
Use in food and cosmetics under specified conditions.
EU
European CommissionPERMITTED
Allowed in cosmetics and food flavorings.
UK
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
Regulated similarly to EU standards.
CA
Health CanadaPERMITTED
Allowed in cosmetics and food products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, methylheptanone is safe for cosmetic use at recommended concentrations, but skin sensitivity should be considered.
Yes, it is permitted as a flavoring agent in food, but should be used within specified limits.
Use in well-ventilated areas and avoid contact with skin to minimize irritation risks.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T06:52:16.457954Z | — | 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.