9.0
ISS Score
A — Good — low hazard
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
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Fragrance · Solvent · Emollient · Skin conditioning agent
Hexyl Salicylate
Also known as: Hexyl 2-hydroxybenzoate, Hexyl salicylate
Molecular Formula
C13H18O3
Molecular Weight
222.28 g/mol
Category
Fragrance ingredient
Bottom Line: Hexyl Salicylate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and fragrances, though some individuals may experience sensitivities.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations
- not applied to broken skin
- not used by individuals with known allergies to salicylates
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you are using other products containing salicylates
✕ Avoid If:
- you have a known allergy to salicylates
- you experience irritation or allergic reactions
- you are using products for children
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C13H18O3 |
| Molecular Weight | 222.28 g/mol |
| Log P | 5.7 |
Common Use Cases
5 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, lotions, shampoos. Use in moderation to minimize potential skin irritation.
Food
Flavoring agents. Generally recognized as safe when used in food flavoring.
Pharmaceutical
Topical analgesics. Consult a healthcare provider for use in medicinal products.
Household
Air fresheners, cleaning products. Ensure proper ventilation when using household products.
Supplement
Dietary supplements. Consult with a healthcare professional before use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Hexyl Salicylate is generally well tolerated on the skin, with low irritation potential.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of Hexyl Salicylate may cause gastrointestinal irritation; caution is advised.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure is typically low risk, but prolonged exposure may lead to respiratory irritation.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Contact with eyes can cause significant irritation; immediate rinsing is recommended.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to chemical exposures.
- pregnant — Limited safety data during pregnancy.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Generally well tolerated with low irritation.
- elderly — Typically low risk but monitor for sensitivity.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Adults typically have a higher tolerance for cosmetic ingredients. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on safety during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | High | Children may be more sensitive to chemical exposures. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; use with caution. |
| elderly | Low | Elderly individuals may have varying sensitivities. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Hexyl Salicylate has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food applications, with moderate concerns for sensitization.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Rabbit - Draize test | Low irritation potential | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Sensitization | positive in sensitization tests | Guinea pig - Maximization test | Moderate concern for sensitization | SCCS Opinion (2015) |
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | EFSA Opinion (2014) |
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
Hexyl Salicylate has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food applications, with moderate concerns for sensitization.
- Used primarily as a fragrance ingredient.
- Potential for skin sensitization in some individuals.
- Regulatory bodies generally support its safe use.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Hexyl Salicylate
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 1%.
View Full Report →
SCCS
Report: Opinion on Hexyl Salicylate
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Considered safe for use in cosmetic products with restrictions.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Hexyl Salicylate
Year: 2014
Conclusion: No safety concerns when used as a food flavoring agent.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Hexyl Salicylate is generally permitted in cosmetics and food, with some restrictions in the EU and UK. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
None
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED WITH RESTRICTIONS
Max 1% in cosmetic products
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED WITH RESTRICTIONS
Max 1% in cosmetic products
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
While generally safe, individuals with sensitive skin should use caution as it may cause irritation.
Yes, it is permitted as a flavoring agent in food, but should be used within recommended limits.
Potential side effects include skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T06:14:59.988757Z | — | 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.