8.0
ISS Score
A — Good — low hazard
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance ingredient · flavoring agent · solvent · intermediate in chemical synthesis
Hexanal
Also known as: caproaldehyde, hexyl aldehyde
Molecular Formula
C6H12O
Molecular Weight
100.16 g/mol
Category
aldehyde
Bottom Line: Hexanal is generally considered safe in low concentrations, though some individuals may experience sensitivity. Always check product labels.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- Used in low concentrations in cosmetic formulations
- Included in food products within regulatory limits
- Used in well-ventilated areas for household applications
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- You have sensitive skin or allergies
- Using products containing hexanal for the first time
- Ingesting food products with hexanal if you have dietary restrictions
✕ Avoid If:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor
- You have a known allergy to aldehydes
- Using in high concentrations in cosmetics or household products
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C6H12O |
| Molecular Weight | 100.16 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -56.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 130.0°C |
| Solubility | very slightly soluble in water; miscible with alcohol, propylene glycol, most fixed oils |
| Density | 0.8335 g/cm³ |
| Log P | 1.8 |
Common Use Cases
5 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, skin creams, shampoos. Use in low concentrations to minimize irritation risk.
Food
Flavoring agents, food preservatives. Generally safe in food at regulated levels.
Pharmaceutical
Topical medications, oral formulations. Consult a healthcare provider for use in medications.
Household
Cleaning products, air fresheners. Ensure good ventilation when using household products.
Supplement
Dietary supplements. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Hexanal is generally considered safe for skin contact in low concentrations.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of hexanal may pose moderate risks, particularly in high doses.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure to hexanal is typically low risk but should be minimized.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Hexanal can cause irritation upon eye contact, indicating a high risk.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Children are particularly sensitive to chemical exposures.
- pregnant — Pregnant individuals may experience heightened sensitivity.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Generally well tolerated in adults when used appropriately.
- elderly — Typically well tolerated, but individual sensitivities may vary.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Adults typically have a higher tolerance for hexanal exposure. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Pregnant individuals may be more sensitive to chemical exposures. |
| infants_children | High | Children are more vulnerable to chemical sensitivities. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on hexanal transfer through breast milk. |
| elderly | Low | Elderly individuals may have varying sensitivities. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Hexanal is an aldehyde with various applications, generally regarded as safe in regulated amounts.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Rabbit - Dermal application | No irritation observed | ECHA REACH Registration |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Guinea Pig - Maximization test | No sensitization observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
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
Hexanal is an aldehyde with various applications, generally regarded as safe in regulated amounts.
- Used in cosmetics, food, and household products.
- Regulatory bodies have assessed its safety.
- Sensitivity may vary among individuals.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Hexanal
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Hexanal is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 0.5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Hexanal
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Hexanal is safe for use in food at specified limits.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Hexanal is permitted as a flavoring agent in food.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Hexanal is permitted for use in cosmetics, food, and household products across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
None
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
None
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Hexanal is generally safe in low concentrations, but check for skin sensitivity.
Yes, hexanal is permitted in food at regulated levels, but consult labels.
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 | 2026-04-13T06:09:59.687838Z | — | 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.