9.0
ISS Score
A — Good — low hazard
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
solvent · intermediate · flavoring agent · stabilizer
Pentane-2,3-Dione
Also known as: 2,3-Pentanedione, acetylacetone, 1,3-diketopentane
Molecular Formula
C5H8O2
Molecular Weight
100.12 g/mol
Category
chemical compound
Bottom Line: Pentane-2,3-Dione is generally considered safe in regulated uses, though caution is advised due to potential sensitivities.
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 nursing
- you are using other active ingredients
✕ Avoid If:
- you have a known allergy to diketones
- you experience irritation upon use
- you are using it in unregulated products
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C5H8O2 |
| Molecular Weight | 100.12 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -61.6°C |
| Boiling Point | 230.0°C |
| Solubility | 1 ml in 3 ml 50% alcohol (in ethanol) |
| Log P | 0.1 |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, serums, sunscreens. Use in cosmetics is generally safe if applied correctly.
Food
Flavoring agents, food additives. Regulated use in food is considered safe.
Pharmaceutical
Topical medications, prescription creams. Use in pharmaceuticals is regulated and monitored.
Supplement
Dietary supplements, nutraceuticals. Consult a healthcare provider before use in supplements.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Pentane-2,3-Dione is generally considered safe for skin contact in low concentrations.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of Pentane-2,3-Dione may pose moderate risks, particularly at higher doses.
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
Eye contact with Pentane-2,3-Dione can cause significant irritation and should be avoided.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher susceptibility to adverse effects due to developing systems.
- pregnant — Limited data on safety during pregnancy; caution advised.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated in adults with no significant issues.
- elderly — Generally safe but may require monitoring for sensitivity.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated in adults; however, individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | Very High | Children may be more susceptible to adverse effects; use with caution. |
| breastfeeding | Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; caution is recommended. |
| elderly | Low to Moderate | Elderly individuals may have increased sensitivity to chemicals. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Pentane-2,3-Dione has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food applications, showing moderate safety concerns.
| 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 | Rabbit - Dermal application | 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
Pentane-2,3-Dione has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food applications, showing moderate safety concerns.
- Moderate safety profile in cosmetics.
- Limited use in food products.
- Potential for skin irritation.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Pentane-2,3-Dione
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Pentane-2,3-Dione
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Acceptable daily intake established; safe within limits.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Permitted for use in food under specific conditions.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Pentane-2,3-Dione is permitted for use in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions with specific limits. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
US
FDAPERMITTED
Limited to specific concentrations in food and cosmetics.
EU
European CommissionPERMITTED
Use in cosmetics and food under specific limits.
UK
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
Similar to EU regulations.
CA
Health CanadaPERMITTED
Regulated use in cosmetics and food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally safe in cosmetics, but patch testing is recommended for sensitive skin.
Yes, but ensure they comply with regulatory limits for safety.
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 | 2026-04-13T07:36:07.372396Z | — | 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.