6.0
ISS Score
B — Acceptable — low-moderate concern
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance ingredient · flavoring agent · antioxidant · preservative
Isoeugenol
Also known as: 2-Methoxy-4-propenylphenol, 4-Allyl-2-methoxyphenol, Eugenol methyl ether
Molecular Formula
C10H12O2
Molecular Weight
164.2 g/mol
Category
fragrance
Bottom Line: Isoeugenol is generally considered safe in cosmetics and food, though some individuals may experience sensitivities.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations in cosmetics
- not applied to broken skin
- used in food products within regulatory limits
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have a history of skin allergies
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you are using multiple products containing fragrances
✕ Avoid If:
- you have known allergies to eugenol or related compounds
- you experience irritation or allergic reactions
- you are using products on sensitive skin
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C10H12O2 |
| Molecular Weight | 164.2 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -10.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 125.0°C |
| Solubility | soluble (in ethanol) |
| Density | 1.08 g/cm³ |
| Log P | 2.6 |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, lotions, soaps. Use in low concentrations to minimize irritation risk.
Food
Flavoring agents, baked goods. Generally safe when used within established limits.
Pharmaceutical
Topical analgesics. Monitor for allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Supplement
Herbal supplements. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Isoeugenol is generally well tolerated on the skin but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of isoeugenol can lead to gastrointestinal irritation and other adverse effects.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure may cause respiratory irritation, particularly in high concentrations.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Contact with eyes can cause significant irritation and potential damage.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to chemicals and potential for adverse effects.
- pregnant — Limited data on safety; potential risks should be considered.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal adverse effects.
- elderly — Generally well tolerated, but monitor for sensitivities.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on safety during pregnancy; potential risks should be considered. |
| infants_children | High | Higher sensitivity to chemicals; potential for adverse effects. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; caution advised. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated, but age-related sensitivities may apply. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Isoeugenol is a fragrance compound with a history of safe use in cosmetics and food, though it can cause allergic reactions.
| 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 (2019) |
| Sensitization | positive in sensitization tests | Human patch test | Potential for sensitization in sensitive individuals | EFSA Opinion (2018) |
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
Isoeugenol is a fragrance compound with a history of safe use in cosmetics and food, though it can cause allergic reactions.
- Commonly used in fragrances and flavorings.
- May cause skin sensitization in some individuals.
- Regulatory bodies have assessed its safety.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Isoeugenol
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Isoeugenol is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 1%.
View Full Report →
SCCS
Report: Opinion on Isoeugenol
Year: 2019
Conclusion: Isoeugenol is safe for use in cosmetics with restrictions on concentration.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Isoeugenol
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Isoeugenol is safe for use as a food flavoring agent within specified limits.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Isoeugenol is permitted in cosmetics and food, with some restrictions in the EU and UK. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
None
European Union
European CommissionRESTRICTED
Concentration limits apply in cosmetics
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentRESTRICTED
Concentration limits apply in cosmetics
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Isoeugenol is commonly used as a fragrance in cosmetics and as a flavoring agent in food products.
Isoeugenol may cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, so caution is advised.
Yes, there are concentration limits for Isoeugenol in cosmetics in the EU and UK.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T06:23:19.452401Z | — | 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.