7.0
ISS Score
B — Acceptable — low-moderate concern
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance ingredient · solvent · flavoring agent
Phenylmethylpentanal
Molecular Formula
C12H16O
Molecular Weight
176.25 g/mol
Category
fragrance
Bottom Line: Phenylmethylpentanal is generally considered safe in cosmetics and food, though caution is advised for sensitive individuals.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations
- not applied to broken skin
- used in well-ventilated areas
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or allergies
- you are pregnant or nursing
- using multiple products containing fragrances
✕ Avoid If:
- you experience irritation or allergic reactions
- you have a known sensitivity to fragrance ingredients
- using in high concentrations
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C12H16O |
| Molecular Weight | 176.25 g/mol |
| Log P | 3 |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, lotions, shampoos. Use in moderation to avoid skin irritation.
Food
Flavoring agents, beverages. Generally safe when used as a food flavoring.
Pharmaceutical
Topical creams, ointments. Monitor for allergic reactions when used in medications.
Supplement
Dietary supplements with flavoring. Consult a healthcare provider if unsure about use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Phenylmethylpentanal is generally well tolerated on skin, with low irritation potential.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion may cause gastrointestinal discomfort; moderate caution is advised.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure is typically low risk, but prolonged exposure should be avoided.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Eye contact can cause irritation; immediate rinsing is recommended if contact occurs.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to skin irritation and systemic effects.
- pregnant — Potential for increased sensitivity and adverse effects.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with low risk of adverse effects.
- elderly — Generally safe, but individual sensitivities may vary.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Adults typically have a higher tolerance for exposure to this ingredient. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Pregnant individuals may have heightened sensitivity to certain substances. |
| infants_children | High | Children's skin is more sensitive, increasing risk of irritation. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on effects during breastfeeding; caution is advised. |
| elderly | Low | Elderly individuals may have varying sensitivities; monitor use. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Phenylmethylpentanal is a fragrance compound with various applications in cosmetics and food. Safety assessments indicate moderate concern for sensitive individuals.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | Not established | Not available | Insufficient data | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Skin Irritation | Non-irritating | Human patch test | Low concern for irritation | SCCS Opinion (2018) |
| Sensitization | Potential sensitizer | Clinical studies | Moderate concern for sensitization | EFSA Opinion (2017) |
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
Phenylmethylpentanal is a fragrance compound with various applications in cosmetics and food. Safety assessments indicate moderate concern for sensitive individuals.
- Used widely in cosmetics and food products.
- Potential allergen for some users.
- Regulatory assessments vary by region.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Fragrance Ingredients
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Generally safe for use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations.
View Full Report →
SCCS
Report: Opinion on Fragrance Allergens
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Fragrance allergens should be labeled; potential for sensitization exists.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Flavoring
Year: 2017
Conclusion: Considered safe for use in food at specified limits.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Phenylmethylpentanal is permitted in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions with labeling requirements for allergens. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
US
FDAPERMITTED
None
EU
European CommissionPERMITTED
Labeling required for allergens
UK
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
Labeling required for allergens
CA
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
While generally safe, individuals with sensitive skin should use caution.
Consult a healthcare provider before using products with this ingredient during pregnancy.
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 | 2026-04-13T07:44:13.178664Z | — | 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.