7.0
ISS Score
B — Score based on regulatory approval status in 4 jurisdiction(s), route-level risk assessment across multiple routes, and 4 toxicology endpoints from safety assessments.
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
preservative · antimicrobial · fragrance · stabilizer
Menthol
Molecular Formula
C10H20O
Molecular Weight
156.26 g/mol
Category
preservation
Bottom Line: Generally regarded as safe when used appropriately, though some individuals may experience sensitivities. Always check product labels.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- Used in recommended concentrations
- Not combined with known irritants
- Patch tested prior to use
- Used in well-ventilated areas
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- You have sensitive skin
- You are pregnant or nursing
- You are using other active ingredients
- You have allergies to similar compounds
✕ Avoid If:
- You have a known allergy to this ingredient
- You experience irritation or discomfort
- You are using on broken skin
- You are under the age of 12 without guidance
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C10H20O |
| Molecular Weight | 156.26 g/mol |
| Melting Point | 43.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 214.0°C |
| Solubility | very soluble in alcohol and volatile oils; slightly soluble in water |
| Log P | 3 |
Common Use Cases
6 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, sunscreens, shampoos. Generally safe for topical use; patch test recommended.
Food
Flavoring agents, food additives. Generally recognized as safe in food applications.
Pharmaceutical
Topical ointments, prescription creams. Use as directed by a healthcare professional.
Supplement
Dietary supplements, herbal products. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Household
Cleaning products, air fresheners. Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid mixing with other chemicals.
Veterinary
Pet shampoos, animal supplements. Consult a veterinarian for appropriate use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Dermal exposure is generally low risk, but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion may pose moderate risks, including gastrointestinal discomfort.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation risks are typically low, but prolonged exposure may lead to respiratory irritation.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Eye contact can cause significant irritation and potential damage.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher risk due to developing systems and potential for adverse reactions.
- pregnant — Caution advised due to limited data on safety during pregnancy.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal risks.
- elderly — Generally well tolerated, but monitor for sensitivity.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | High | Higher sensitivity to chemicals; potential for adverse effects. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; use with caution. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated, but may have increased sensitivity. |
Toxicology Data
4 Endpoints
The ingredient has been assessed for safety in various applications, showing low toxicity and minimal irritation potential.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2021) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Human patch test | No irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2021) |
| Sensitization | non-sensitizing | Human clinical study | No sensitization observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2021) |
| Eye Irritation | mild irritation | Rabbit - Draize test | Mild irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2021) |
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
The ingredient has been assessed for safety in various applications, showing low toxicity and minimal irritation potential.
- Low acute toxicity observed
- Minimal skin irritation reported
- Generally safe for cosmetic and food use
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Ingredient
Year: 2021
Conclusion: Considered safe for use in cosmetics at specified concentrations.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Food Additives
Year: 2020
Conclusion: No safety concerns at current usage levels in food.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food and Drug Administration Regulations
Year: 2022
Conclusion: Generally recognized as safe for specified uses.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Overall, the ingredient is permitted for use across major jurisdictions with no significant restrictions. 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
While generally safe, some individuals may experience sensitivities. Patch testing is recommended.
Yes, it is generally recognized as safe for use in food applications at specified levels.
If irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional if necessary.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-29T06:44:07.826016Z | — | 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.