6.0
ISS Score
B — Acceptable — low-moderate concern
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance agent · solvent · antimicrobial agent · antioxidant · flavoring agent
Alpha-Terpinene
Also known as: Terpinene-4-ol, Alpha-terpinene, p-Cymene
Molecular Formula
C10H16
Molecular Weight
136.23 g/mol
Category
essential oil component
Bottom Line: Alpha-Terpinene is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and food, though some individuals may experience sensitivity.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- Used in diluted forms in cosmetics
- Ingested in small amounts as a flavoring agent
- Used in well-formulated products
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- You have sensitive skin or allergies
- Using in high concentrations
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
✕ Avoid If:
- You have a known allergy to terpenes
- Using on broken or irritated skin
- Ingesting large quantities
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C10H16 |
| Molecular Weight | 136.23 g/mol |
| Melting Point | 25.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 173.0°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 small amounts as a flavoring.
Pharmaceutical
Topical ointments, medicated creams. Consult a healthcare provider for medicinal use.
Supplement
Dietary supplements, herbal capsules. Use under guidance to avoid adverse effects.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Alpha-Terpinene is generally safe for skin contact but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of Alpha-Terpinene can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation of Alpha-Terpinene may cause respiratory irritation, particularly in high concentrations.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Contact with eyes can cause significant irritation and should be avoided.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher risk of irritation and adverse reactions.
- pregnant — Limited safety data; use with caution.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal irritation.
- breastfeeding — Generally safe but should be used cautiously.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated; however, some may experience mild irritation. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on safety during pregnancy; use with caution. |
| infants_children | High | Higher sensitivity to essential oils; 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
Alpha-Terpinene has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food applications, showing low toxicity.
| 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 | Not a skin irritant | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Sensitization | no sensitization observed | Human clinical study | Low sensitization potential | 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
Alpha-Terpinene has been evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food applications, showing low toxicity.
- Generally recognized as safe in low concentrations.
- Potential skin irritant for sensitive individuals.
- Limited data on long-term effects.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Alpha-Terpinene
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Alpha-Terpinene is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Alpha-Terpinene
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Alpha-Terpinene is safe for use as a food flavoring agent.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Ingredients and Colors
Year: 2021
Conclusion: Generally recognized as safe when used appropriately.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Alpha-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
None
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Alpha-Terpinene is generally safe for skin use in diluted forms, but may irritate sensitive skin.
Yes, it is generally recognized as safe for ingestion in small amounts as a flavoring agent.
Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions; use with caution.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T04:10:06.282530Z | — | 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.