55.0
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)
—
solvent · fragrance · thinner · cleaning agent
Turpentine
Also known as: Turpentine Oil, Pine Oil, Distilled Turpentine
Molecular Weight
136.22 g/mol
Category
solvent
Bottom Line: Turpentine is generally used as a solvent in various applications, though caution is advised due to potential health risks when used improperly.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in well-ventilated areas
- applied in small amounts for specific purposes
- properly diluted in formulations
- used according to product guidelines
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or respiratory issues
- using on broken or irritated skin
- mixing with other chemicals
- exposed to heat or flames
✕ Avoid If:
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you have a known allergy to turpentine
- using near eyes or mucous membranes
- using in enclosed spaces without ventilation
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | 136.22 g/mol |
| Solubility | soluble in organic solvents, insoluble in water |
Common Use Cases
3 Categories
Cosmetic
Nail polish removers, fragrance oils. Use in well-ventilated areas and avoid skin contact.
Household
Paint thinners, cleaning agents. Ensure proper ventilation and avoid ingestion.
Pharmaceutical
Topical ointments, medicated liniments. Use as directed and avoid excessive application.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Moderate
Turpentine can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions upon contact.
oral
oral
Risk Level: High
Ingestion of turpentine can lead to severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Moderate
Inhalation of turpentine vapors can irritate the respiratory tract and cause dizziness.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Eye contact with turpentine can cause severe irritation and potential damage.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- pregnant — Pregnant individuals face heightened risks from exposure.
- infants_children — Children are particularly vulnerable to toxic effects.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Generally adults can tolerate limited exposure with precautions.
- elderly — Elderly may tolerate with caution but should be monitored.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Moderate | Adults may have varying sensitivities to turpentine based on health status. |
| pregnant | Very High | Pregnant individuals may be more susceptible to the effects of turpentine. |
| infants_children | Very High | Children are more vulnerable to toxic effects due to lower body weight. |
| breastfeeding | High | Turpentine exposure may affect breast milk and infant health. |
| elderly | Moderate | Elderly individuals may have increased sensitivity to chemicals. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Turpentine is a solvent with various applications, but it poses health risks if misused.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 5000 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Moderate acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Skin Irritation | Irritating | Rabbit - Dermal application | Causes skin irritation | SCCS Opinion (2015) |
| Sensitization | Sensitizing | Guinea Pig - Maximization test | Potential sensitizer | FDA Regulatory Status (2020) |
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
Turpentine is a solvent with various applications, but it poses health risks if misused.
- Can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues.
- Regulatory assessments highlight safety concerns.
- Proper usage is crucial for safety.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Turpentine
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Turpentine is safe for use in cosmetics at specified concentrations.
View Full Report →
SCCS
Report: Opinion on Turpentine
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Turpentine should be used with caution due to potential irritant effects.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Regulatory Status of Turpentine
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Turpentine is regulated as a hazardous substance; caution is advised.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Turpentine is restricted in multiple jurisdictions due to health risks. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDARESTRICTED
Regulated as a hazardous substance.
European Union
European CommissionRESTRICTED
Use limited in cosmetics due to irritation potential.
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentRESTRICTED
Similar to EU regulations.
Canada
Health CanadaRESTRICTED
Regulated under hazardous substances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Turpentine can cause irritation; use with caution and follow guidelines.
Turpentine is not approved for food use due to safety concerns.
Seek medical attention immediately if ingested; do not induce vomiting.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-29T07:30:06.643037Z | — | 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.