66.0
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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antioxidant · preservative · fragrance ingredient · solvent
PHENOL, 2-ETHOXY-4-(METHOXYMETHYL)-
Category
chemical compound
Bottom Line: Phenol, 2-ethoxy-4-(methoxymethyl)- is generally considered safe in regulated amounts, though caution is advised when used in sensitive populations.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations in cosmetics
- applied to intact skin
- used in food products within regulatory limits
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or allergies
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you are using other active ingredients
✕ Avoid If:
- you have a known allergy to phenolic compounds
- you have open wounds or broken skin
- you are using on children without consulting a doctor
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, sunscreens, shampoos. Use in low concentrations to minimize irritation risk.
Food
Flavoring agents, preservatives. Ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
Pharmaceutical
Topical antiseptics, pain relief creams. Consult a healthcare provider for use in sensitive populations.
Supplement
Herbal extracts, nutritional supplements. Use under guidance to avoid adverse effects.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Dermal exposure to phenol, 2-ethoxy-4-(methoxymethyl)- is generally low risk but may cause irritation.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of this compound can lead to moderate toxicity, including gastrointestinal irritation.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure may cause respiratory irritation, but risks are generally low with proper ventilation.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Eye contact with this substance can cause significant irritation and potential damage.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of phenol.
- pregnant — Pregnant individuals should exercise caution due to limited data.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Generally well tolerated with proper use.
- elderly — May tolerate well but should be monitored.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated in adults, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | Very High | Children may be more sensitive to the effects of phenol compounds. |
| breastfeeding | Insufficient Data | Limited information on excretion in breast milk; caution is warranted. |
| elderly | Low to Moderate | Elderly individuals may have increased sensitivity to chemicals. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Phenol, 2-ethoxy-4-(methoxymethyl)- has been assessed for safety in cosmetics and food applications, showing low toxicity.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 2000 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Moderate acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Human patch test | No significant irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Human patch test | No sensitization reactions | EFSA Opinion (2018) |
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-ethoxy-4-(methoxymethyl)- has been assessed for safety in cosmetics and food applications, showing low toxicity.
- Generally safe in regulated amounts.
- Potential for skin irritation.
- Limited data on long-term effects.
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 →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Phenolic Compounds
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Acceptable daily intake established; safe in food applications.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Regulatory Status of Phenolic Compounds
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Permitted in cosmetics and food under specific conditions.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Phenol, 2-ethoxy-4-(methoxymethyl)- is permitted in major jurisdictions with specific concentration limits. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
Limited to specific concentrations in cosmetics and food.
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
Must comply with safety assessments.
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
Subject to safety evaluations.
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
Limited use in cosmetics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, yes, but it should be used in low concentrations to minimize irritation risk.
Caution is advised; perform a patch test first to check for any adverse reactions.
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 | 2026-04-19T20:28:13.546567Z | — | 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.