68.0
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)
—
preservative · fragrance ingredient · pH adjuster · solvent
BENZOIC ACID, 2-HYDROXY-, 2-PHENYLETHYL ESTER
Category
chemical compound
Bottom Line: Generally regarded as safe for use in cosmetics and food, though some individuals may experience sensitivity.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- Used in concentrations below recommended limits
- Not applied to broken skin
- Used in well-ventilated areas
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- You have sensitive skin or allergies
- Using in combination with other active ingredients
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
✕ Avoid If:
- You have a known allergy to benzoic acid
- Using on open wounds or irritated skin
- Ingesting in large amounts
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, shampoos, sunscreens. Generally safe in cosmetics; patch test if sensitive.
Food
Soft drinks, jams, pickles. Used as a preservative; safe in regulated amounts.
Pharmaceutical
Topical ointments, oral medications. Used in formulations; follow dosage instructions.
Supplement
Dietary supplements, herbal products. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Dermal exposure to benzoic acid esters is generally well tolerated with low irritation potential.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Oral ingestion of benzoic acid esters may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low
Inhalation exposure is typically low risk, but high concentrations may cause respiratory irritation.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Moderate
Ocular exposure may lead to irritation; flushing with water is recommended if contact occurs.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to chemical exposures may lead to adverse reactions.
- pregnant — Limited data necessitates caution during pregnancy.
- sensitive_skin — Increased risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal adverse effects.
- breastfeeding — Generally considered safe with monitoring.
- elderly — May tolerate well, but individual sensitivities should be considered.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Adults typically have a higher tolerance for cosmetic and food ingredients. |
| pregnant | Low to Moderate | Limited data on long-term effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | Moderate | Children may be more sensitive to chemical exposures; use with care. |
| breastfeeding | Low | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; generally considered safe. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation or allergic reactions. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Benzoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, 2-phenylethyl ester is generally safe for use in cosmetics and food, with some potential for irritation.
| 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 | Human patch test | No significant irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Human clinical study | No sensitization reactions reported | 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
Benzoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, 2-phenylethyl ester is generally safe for use in cosmetics and food, with some potential for irritation.
- Used as a preservative in various products.
- Regulatory bodies have assessed its safety.
- Sensitivity may occur in some individuals.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Benzoic Acid and Its Salts
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on the safety of benzoic acid and its salts
Year: 2014
Conclusion: Acceptable daily intake established; safe in food applications.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status List
Year: 2021
Conclusion: Permitted as a food additive; safe under specified conditions.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Regulatory assessments indicate safe use in cosmetics and food within limits. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
Limited to specific concentrations in food and cosmetics.
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
Allowed in cosmetics and food within specified limits.
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
Regulated similarly to EU standards.
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
Allowed in cosmetics and food under specific conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally safe in cosmetics, but patch test if you have sensitive skin.
Yes, it's permitted in food, but follow recommended limits.
Discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-19T18:15:57.081858Z | — | 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.