8.0
ISS Score
A- — Good — low to minimal hazard
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance ingredient · flavoring agent · solvent · aroma compound
Methyl Isoeugenol
Also known as: Methyl 2-methoxy-4-propenylphenol, Methyl isoeugenol, 4-allyl-1,2-dimethoxybenzene
Molecular Formula
C11H14O2
Molecular Weight
178.23 g/mol
Category
fragrance
Bottom Line: Methyl isoeugenol 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
- not used by individuals with known sensitivities
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have allergies to similar compounds
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you are using multiple products containing fragrances
✕ Avoid If:
- you have a history of skin irritation
- you are using on children under 3 years
- you are allergic to eugenol or related compounds
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C11H14O2 |
| Molecular Weight | 178.23 g/mol |
| Solubility | soluble (in ethanol) |
| Log P | 2.5 |
Common Use Cases
5 Categories
Cosmetic
Perfumes, lotions, soaps. Use in moderation to avoid potential skin irritation.
Food
Flavoring agents, beverages. Generally safe in food at regulated levels.
Pharmaceutical
Topical creams, ointments. Monitor for allergic reactions when used in medications.
Household
Air fresheners, cleaning products. Ensure good ventilation when using products with fragrances.
Supplement
Herbal supplements. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Methyl Isoeugenol is generally safe for skin contact but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of Methyl Isoeugenol may pose moderate risks, including potential toxicity at high doses.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure is typically low risk, but prolonged exposure may lead to respiratory irritation.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Eye contact with Methyl Isoeugenol can cause significant irritation and should be avoided.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity may lead to increased risk of adverse effects.
- pregnant — Limited data necessitates caution during pregnancy.
- sensitive_skin — Increased risk of irritation for those with sensitive skin.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal risks.
- elderly — Generally well tolerated, but monitor for sensitivities.
- breastfeeding — Low to moderate risk, but caution is advised.
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 in young children may increase risk of adverse effects. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; caution is recommended. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated, but age-related sensitivities may exist. |
| sensitive_skin | High | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Methyl isoeugenol is a fragrance compound with potential sensitization effects. Regulatory reviews indicate moderate safety concerns.
| 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 | SCCS Opinion (2015) |
| Sensitization | positive in sensitization tests | Human sensitization study | Moderate concern for sensitization | EFSA Opinion (2014) |
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
Methyl isoeugenol is a fragrance compound with potential sensitization effects. Regulatory reviews indicate moderate safety concerns.
- Commonly used in cosmetics and food products.
- Potential allergen for sensitive individuals.
- Regulatory reviews suggest cautious use.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Methyl Isoeugenol
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Methyl isoeugenol is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 0.01%.
View Full Report →
SCCS
Report: Opinion on Methyl Isoeugenol
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Methyl isoeugenol should be restricted in cosmetic products due to sensitization potential.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Methyl Isoeugenol
Year: 2014
Conclusion: Acceptable daily intake established; however, caution is advised due to potential allergenicity.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Methyl isoeugenol is permitted in the US and Canada, but restricted in the EU and UK due to sensitization concerns. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
US
FDAPERMITTED
None
EU
European CommissionRESTRICTED
Limited use in cosmetics due to sensitization
UK
UK GovernmentRESTRICTED
Similar to EU regulations
CA
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Methyl isoeugenol is generally safe in cosmetics at low concentrations, but some may experience sensitivities.
Yes, it can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, so caution is advised.
It is permitted in the US and Canada but restricted in the EU and UK due to potential sensitization.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T06:56:41.939408Z | — | 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.