56.0
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 · flavoring agent · solvent · preservative
6-Methyl Coumarin
Also known as: 6-Methyl-2-benzopyrone, 6-Methylcoumarin
Molecular Formula
C10H8O2
Molecular Weight
160.17 g/mol
Category
fragrance
Bottom Line: 6-Methyl Coumarin is generally considered safe in cosmetics and food, though some individuals may experience sensitivities.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations
- not applied to broken skin
- used in well-ventilated areas
- not ingested in large amounts
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin
- you are pregnant or nursing
- you have allergies to fragrances
- you are using other skin irritants
✕ Avoid If:
- you have a known allergy to coumarins
- you are using products for children
- you have respiratory issues
- you are applying to open wounds
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C10H8O2 |
| Molecular Weight | 160.17 g/mol |
| Melting Point | 76.5°C |
| Boiling Point | 304.0°C |
| Solubility | soluble (in ethanol) |
| Log P | 1.8 |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, lotions, shampoos. Use in low concentrations to minimize irritation risk.
Food
Flavoring agents, baked goods, confectionery. Generally safe when used as a food flavoring.
Pharmaceutical
Topical creams, ointments. Monitor for allergic reactions when used in formulations.
Supplement
Dietary supplements. Consult a healthcare provider before use in supplements.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
6-Methyl Coumarin is generally safe for skin contact but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of 6-Methyl Coumarin may pose moderate risks, including potential toxicity at high doses.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure is typically low risk but may cause respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Eye contact with 6-Methyl Coumarin can cause significant irritation and should be avoided.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to potential toxic effects.
- pregnant — Limited data on safety during pregnancy.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Generally well tolerated with proper use.
- breastfeeding — Use with caution; limited data available.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated in adults, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | High | Children may be more sensitive to potential toxic effects. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; caution is recommended. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
6-Methyl Coumarin has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food, 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 (2012) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Rabbit - Dermal application | Not irritating to skin | SCCS Opinion (2018) |
| Sensitization | potential sensitizer | Human patch test | May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals | EFSA Opinion (2016) |
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
6-Methyl Coumarin has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food, showing low toxicity and minimal irritation potential.
- Low acute toxicity in animal studies.
- Generally recognized as safe in food applications.
- Potential allergen for sensitive individuals.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of 6-Methyl Coumarin
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 0.5%.
View Full Report →
SCCS
Report: Opinion on 6-Methyl Coumarin
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Considered safe for use in cosmetics with restrictions on concentration.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on 6-Methyl Coumarin
Year: 2016
Conclusion: Acceptable daily intake established; safe for food use.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
6-Methyl Coumarin is permitted in the US and Canada, but restricted in the EU and UK. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
None
European Union
European CommissionRESTRICTED
Max concentration of 0.5% in cosmetics
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentRESTRICTED
Max concentration of 0.5% in cosmetics
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, yes, but it should be used in low concentrations to avoid irritation.
Yes, it may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, so caution is advised.
It is generally recognized as safe for use in food flavoring within established limits.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-29T06:55:34.329827Z | — | 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.