66.0
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)
—
fragrance ingredient · preservative · antimicrobial agent · solvent
Salicylaldehyde
Also known as: o-hydroxybenzaldehyde, salicylaldehyde, salicyl alcohol
Molecular Formula
C7H6O2
Molecular Weight
122.12 g/mol
Category
aromatic aldehyde
Bottom Line: Salicylaldehyde is generally considered safe in low concentrations, though some individuals may experience sensitivity.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in cosmetic formulations below 0.5%
- applied to intact skin without prior irritation
- used in food products within regulatory limits
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have a history of skin allergies
- using in combination with other sensitizing agents
- applying to sensitive skin areas
✕ Avoid If:
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you have known allergies to salicylates
- using on broken or irritated skin
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C7H6O2 |
| Molecular Weight | 122.12 g/mol |
| Melting Point | 0.7°C |
| Boiling Point | 196.0°C |
| Solubility | miscible at room temperature (in ethanol) |
| Density | 1.167 g/cm³ |
| Log P | 1.8 |
Common Use Cases
5 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, serums, scented lotions. Use in low concentrations to minimize irritation risk.
Food
Flavoring agents, food preservatives. Ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
Pharmaceutical
Topical analgesics, anti-inflammatory creams. Monitor for allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Household
Cleaning agents, air fresheners. Use in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation risks.
Supplement
Herbal extracts, natural remedies. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Salicylaldehyde may cause mild irritation upon skin contact.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of salicylaldehyde can lead to gastrointestinal irritation.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation may cause respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Direct eye contact with salicylaldehyde can cause significant irritation.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher risk of adverse effects due to sensitivity.
- sensitive_skin — Increased likelihood of irritation and allergic reactions.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal risk.
- elderly — Generally safe but should be monitored 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 | Very High | Higher sensitivity to chemicals; potential for adverse effects. |
| breastfeeding | Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; caution is warranted. |
| elderly | Low to Moderate | Elderly may have increased sensitivity to irritants. |
| sensitive_skin | High | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Salicylaldehyde has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food, showing low toxicity at regulated levels.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Rabbit - Dermal application | Not a skin irritant | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Sensitization | moderate sensitizer | Guinea Pig - Maximization test | Potential sensitizer in some individuals | 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
Salicylaldehyde has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food, showing low toxicity at regulated levels.
- Low acute toxicity in animal studies.
- Potential skin sensitizer in some individuals.
- Regulatory limits established for safe use.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Salicylaldehyde
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Salicylaldehyde is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 0.5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Salicylaldehyde
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Salicylaldehyde is acceptable as a food flavoring agent within specified limits.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Regulatory Status of Salicylaldehyde
Year: 2021
Conclusion: Salicylaldehyde is permitted in cosmetics and food under specific regulations.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Salicylaldehyde is permitted for use in cosmetics and food under regulated conditions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
Limited to cosmetic and food use within specified concentrations.
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
Allowed in cosmetics and food flavoring under specific limits.
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
Regulated similarly to EU standards.
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
Allowed in cosmetics and food with concentration limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Salicylaldehyde is commonly used in cosmetics, food flavoring, and pharmaceuticals.
It may cause irritation or sensitization in some individuals, so caution is advised.
Yes, its use is regulated in cosmetics and food to ensure safety.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-29T07:27:16.552183Z | — | 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.