55.0
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)
—
solvent · fragrance · intermediate · chemical feedstock
BENZENE, 1-METHYL-4-(1-METHYLETHYL)-
Category
aromatic hydrocarbon
Bottom Line: Benzene, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethyl)- is typically safe in low concentrations, though caution is advised due to potential health risks.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in well-ventilated areas
- concentrations are below regulatory limits
- used in products with proper labeling
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have respiratory issues
- you are pregnant or nursing
- using products for prolonged periods
✕ Avoid If:
- you have a known allergy to benzene derivatives
- using in enclosed spaces without ventilation
- exposed to high concentrations
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|
Common Use Cases
5 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, hair sprays. Use in well-ventilated areas to minimize inhalation risks.
Pharmaceutical
Topical ointments, creams. Follow dosage instructions to avoid adverse effects.
Household
Cleaning agents, air fresheners. Ensure good ventilation when using these products.
Food
Flavoring agents. Regulatory limits must be adhered to for safety.
Supplement
Dietary supplements. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Moderate
Skin contact with benzene can lead to irritation and systemic absorption.
oral
oral
Risk Level: High
Ingestion of benzene poses significant health risks, including toxicity.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Very High
Inhalation of benzene vapors can cause serious respiratory and systemic effects.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Moderate
Eye contact with benzene can cause irritation and potential damage.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- pregnant — Pregnant individuals face heightened risks from benzene exposure.
- infants_children — Children are particularly sensitive to toxic effects.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Generally, adults can tolerate limited exposure.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Moderate | Adults may have varying sensitivities to benzene exposure. |
| pregnant | Very High | Pregnant individuals may be more susceptible to toxic effects. |
| infants_children | Very High | Children are more vulnerable to the effects of toxic substances. |
| breastfeeding | High | Benzene can be transferred through breast milk. |
| elderly | Moderate | Elderly individuals may have decreased resilience to toxins. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Benzene, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethyl)- has been assessed for safety in various applications, showing potential risks at high concentrations.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 5000 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Moderate acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Rabbit - Dermal application | Not irritating | SCCS Opinion (2018) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Guinea Pig - Maximization test | No sensitization observed | FDA Regulatory Status (2020) |
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
Benzene, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethyl)- has been assessed for safety in various applications, showing potential risks at high concentrations.
- Health risks associated with high exposure.
- Regulatory limits are established for safety.
- Further research is needed for long-term effects.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Benzene Derivatives
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Generally safe in cosmetics at low concentrations.
View Full Report →
SCCS
Report: Opinion on Benzene Derivatives
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Safety concerns at high exposure levels.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Regulatory Status of Benzene
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Regulated in food and cosmetics; limits apply.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Benzene, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethyl)- is permitted with restrictions in major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
US
FDAPERMITTED
Limited concentrations in food and cosmetics
EU
European CommissionRESTRICTED
Maximum allowable concentrations in cosmetics
UK
UK GovernmentRESTRICTED
Similar to EU regulations
CA
Health CanadaPERMITTED
Limited use in cosmetics and household products
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally safe at low concentrations, but always check product labels.
High exposure can lead to respiratory issues and other health concerns.
Yes, there are regulatory limits on concentrations in cosmetics and food.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-19T17:57:12.835690Z | — | 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.