
General Description:
Benzyl Salicylate is an aromatic ester formed from benzyl alcohol and salicylic acid. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a faint floral odor. This ingredient is widely used in cosmetics for its fragrance-fixative properties and UV-absorbing capabilities. It is commonly found in perfumery and skincare formulations.
Uses in the Cosmetic Industry:
Acts as a fixative that enhances the longevity and stability of perfumes and fragranced products.
Offers mild UV protection, often used to stabilize formulations sensitive to light degradation.
Contributes to the smooth application and solubility of oil-based ingredients in creams and lotions.
Hazards & Safety Information:
Benzyl Salicylate is listed as a potential fragrance allergen under EU Cosmetic Regulation. It must be declared on ingredient lists when its concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products.
May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals when used in high concentrations.
Generally non-phototoxic, but as a salicylate ester, it can be mildly reactive in light-sensitive formulations.
Regulated by the IFRA (International Fragrance Association) and EU Cosmetic Directive with usage concentration limits in fragrances and skin-contact products.
CAS Number: 118-58-1
INCI Name: Benzyl Salicylate
Composition:An aromatic ester synthesized from:
- Benzyl Alcohol
- Salicylic Acid
- Molecular Formula: C14H12O3
- Molecular Weight: 228.24 g/mol
Purity Grade: Cosmetic and Perfumery Grade
Typically ≥ 98% purity
Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow oily liquid
Mild sweet-floral aroma
Solubility: Soluble in alcohols, oils, and organic solvents
Insoluble in water
Preservation: Self-preserving under proper storage conditions
No added preservatives typically required in raw material form
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area
Protect from light and heat
Recommended storage temperature: <25°C (77°F)
Shelf life: 24 months in unopened packaging
Raw Material Sources: Synthetic origin, but derived from aromatic alcohols and carboxylic acids, often petrochemical-based
Some versions may be semi-synthetic from plant-based benzyl alcohol
Manufacture: Produced through esterification of benzyl alcohol with salicylic acid using acid catalysis. The process yields a stable aromatic ester used primarily in fragrances and UV-sensitive formulations.
Animal Testing: Not tested on animals by responsible suppliers
Can be sourced from cruelty-free certified manufacturers
GMO Status: Non-GMO
No genetically modified organisms are involved in its production
Vegan Status: Vegan-friendly
Contains no animal-derived ingredients and is synthetically produced
California Proposition 65 Compliance:
Not listed under Proposition 65
Contains no known carcinogens or reproductive toxins under normal cosmetic use
Warnings & Regulatory Notes: Classified as a potential allergen under EU Cosmetic Regulation
Must be declared on labels at >0.001% in leave-on products and >0.01% in rinse-off products
May cause mild irritation or contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes
Use in accordance with IFRA guidelines and regional cosmetic safety standards
THE STORY OF BENZYL SALICYLATE
Benzyl Salicylate: The Floral UV-Absorbing Fragrance Fixative
Benzyl Salicylate is a multifunctional cosmetic ingredient used as a fragrance enhancer, UV absorber, and solubilizer in perfumes, skincare, suncare, and haircare formulations. Known for its soft floral aroma profile, it acts as a fixative that slows fragrance evaporation, giving longer-lasting scent performance.
Aromatic Ester Formed from Benzyl Alcohol & Salicylic Acid
Although naturally present in jasmine, ylang-ylang, and hyacinth oils, commercial Benzyl Salicylate is produced through controlled esterification and purified for cosmetic, fragrance, and IFRA-compliant grades. TRCkem supplies clear, low-odor, high-assay material suitable for consistent perfumery use.
Fix. Blend. Stabilize.
Key functions in cosmetics & fragrances
✅ Fragrance Fixative – slows evaporation, enhances longevity
✅ Blending Agent – smooths transitions between top, middle, and base notes
✅ UV Absorber – protects formulas from light degradation
✅ Solubilizer – helps dissolve fragrance actives in emulsions
Used in perfumes, lotions, body mists, hair serums, deodorants, SPF formulas, and fabric care fragrances.
Widely Used, IFRA-Regulated, Allergen-Listed
Typical usage: 0.1–5% depending on product category and fragrance load.
Listed as a potential fragrance allergen in EU regulations → must appear on label >0.001% (leave-on) or >0.01% (rinse-off).
Approved for global cosmetic use but concentration must follow IFRA Category Limits based on end-use.
Store in airtight containers away from heat and direct light to prevent oxidation.
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1.What is the CAS number and INCI name of Benzyl Salicylate?
INCI Name: Benzyl Salicylate
CAS Number: 118-58-1.
2. What is Benzyl Salicylate?
Benzyl Salicylate is an aromatic ester formed from benzyl alcohol and salicylic acid. It is widely used in fragrances, perfumes, personal care products, and cosmetics for its pleasant floral scent and fixative properties.
3. Is Benzyl Salicylate safe for use in cosmetics?
When used within regulatory guidelines and recommended concentrations, Benzyl Salicylate is generally considered safe for cosmetic and personal care applications.
4. In which products is Benzyl Salicylate commonly found?
It is commonly found in:
- Perfumes and colognes
- Body lotions
- Creams and moisturizers
- Shampoos and conditioners
- Deodorants
- Soaps and body washes
- Hair care products
- Household fragrance products
5. Is Benzyl Salicylate suitable for sensitive skin?
Individuals with fragrance sensitivities should exercise caution and perform a patch test before using products containing Benzyl Salicylate.