5.0
ISS Score
C — Moderate caution — review exposure context
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance agent · solvent · antimicrobial agent · antioxidant
Gamma-Terpinene
Also known as: gamma-terpinene, 4-isopropyl-1-methyl-1-cyclohexene
Molecular Formula
C10H16
Molecular Weight
136.23 g/mol
Category
essential oil component
Bottom Line: Gamma-Terpinene is generally considered safe in cosmetics and food, though some individuals may experience sensitivity.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in diluted forms in cosmetics
- consumed in food at typical levels
- not applied to broken skin
- used in well-ventilated areas
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or allergies
- you are pregnant or nursing
- you are using other skin irritants
- you have respiratory conditions
✕ Avoid If:
- you are allergic to terpenes
- you have a history of skin reactions
- you are using it in high concentrations
- you are applying it to mucous membranes
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C10H16 |
| Molecular Weight | 136.23 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -10.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 181.0°C |
| Solubility | Soluble (in ethanol) |
| Log P | 2.8 |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, essential oils, body lotions. Use in diluted forms to minimize irritation risk.
Food
Flavoring agents, herbal teas. Generally safe in food at typical consumption levels.
Pharmaceutical
Topical ointments, medicated creams. Consult a healthcare provider for medicinal use.
Supplement
Herbal supplements, essential oil capsules. Use under guidance, especially if pregnant.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Gamma-Terpinene is generally safe for skin contact but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of Gamma-Terpinene can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort in some cases.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation of Gamma-Terpinene may cause respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Contact with eyes can cause significant irritation and discomfort.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher risk of irritation and adverse reactions.
- pregnant — Limited safety data; caution is recommended.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal risk.
- breastfeeding — Generally safe but should be used cautiously.
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; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | High | Higher sensitivity to chemicals; potential for adverse reactions. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data; potential for transfer through breast milk. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Gamma-Terpinene is 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 | Human patch test | No significant irritation observed | SCCS Opinion (2015) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Human repeated insult patch test | No sensitization reactions | 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
Gamma-Terpinene is 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 skin irritant for sensitive individuals.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Gamma-Terpinene
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Gamma-Terpinene
Year: 2016
Conclusion: Considered safe for use as a food flavoring.
View Full Report →
SCCS
Report: SCCS Opinion on Gamma-Terpinene
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetic products with restrictions.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Gamma-Terpinene is permitted for use in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
None
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
Use in cosmetics must comply with SCCS opinion.
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
Must comply with UK cosmetic regulations.
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Gamma-Terpinene is generally safe for skin use in diluted forms, though some may experience irritation.
Yes, it is considered safe for consumption in food at typical levels, but moderation is advised.
Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions; patch testing is recommended.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T05:53:49.067763Z | — | 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.