The chemistry Fragrance notes

Benzyl Salicylate: A UV Absorber and a Scent Enhancer

  • February 26, 2025
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Introduction A common scent ingredient in cosmetics, skincare products, and perfumes is benzyl salicylate. Known for its subtle floral perfume, this chemical has dual functions as a UV

Benzyl Salicylate:  A UV Absorber and a Scent Enhancer

Introduction

A common scent ingredient in cosmetics, skincare products, and perfumes is benzyl salicylate. Known for its subtle floral perfume, this chemical has dual functions as a UV absorber and a scent enhancer. Although it is frequently used in personal care products, discussions within the cosmetics industry have been sparked by worries about its safety and possible adverse responses. The applications, advantages, safety concerns, and cost information of benzyl salicylate will all be covered in this article.

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What is Benzyl Salicylate?

It is An organic substance that is a member of the ester family. Salicylic acid and benzyl alcohol are combined to create it. Because of its faint yet pleasant scent and capacity to stabilise other fragrance ingredients, the chemical is frequently utilised in cosmetics and fragrances.

Manufacturing Process

Salicylic acid and benzyl alcohol are esterified to create it. Catalysts and heating are used in the process. The finished substance is refined for usage in perfumes and cosmetics.

Property Details
Chemical Formula C14H12O3
Molecular Weight 228.24 g/mol
Appearance Colorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor Mild, floral, balsamic scent
Common Uses Perfumes, skincare, sunscreens, deodorants, hair care products
Reference Wikipedia

Uses of Benzyl Salicylate

  1. Fragrance Ingredient

In perfumery, the product is frequently used as a fixative to extend the shelf life of scents. It is an essential ingredient in luxury and mainstream fragrances since it melds nicely with floral, woody, and musky tones.

Is Benzyl Salicylate Safe in Perfume?

Because it may cause allergic reactions in certain people, its safety has been a subject of debate. To protect consumers, regulatory organisations like the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) have established concentration restrictions.

  1. UV Absorber in Skincare Products

Because of its capacity to absorb UV rays, it is a common ingredient in sunscreens and skincare products. Because of this, it is a beneficial component of sun protection and anti-ageing products.

Read more about Benzyl Salicylate For Skin

  1. Cosmetic and Hair Care Products

Because of its gentle aroma and stabilising qualities, It is frequently used in shampoos, conditioners, and body lotions. It improves personal care products’ overall aroma profile.

  1. Soap and Detergent Industry

It is an ingredient in soaps, laundry detergents, and fabric softeners that adds a fresh, flowery scent to clothing and household goods.

Benefits of Benzyl Salicylate

It blends well with many fragrance ingredients, including vanilla absolute and floral notes. It enhances perfume longevity and adds depth to scents.

  • Enhances Fragrances: It acts as a fixative, ensuring that perfumes and personal care products retain their scent for longer periods.
  • UV Protection: By absorbing UV radiation, it helps protect skin from sun damage when used in sunscreens.
  • Stability in Formulations: It stabilizes other fragrance components, preventing them from degrading over time.
  • Versatility: Found in perfumes, lotions, soaps, and sunscreens, this ingredient is adaptable across multiple product categories.

Possible Hazards Safety Measures to Consider:

  • Patch Testing: Individuals with sensitive skin should conduct a patch test before using products containing Benzyl Salicylate.
  • Check Labels: If you have known fragrance allergies, reviewing ingredient lists can help avoid unwanted reactions.
  • Regulated Usage: The IFRA sets safe concentration levels to minimize risks associated with exposure.
  • Avoiding Overuse: Using multiple products with high concentrations of the compound may increase the likelihood of irritation.

Where to Get Benzyl Salicylate

The product can be purchased from:

  • Chemical Suppliers: Specialty suppliers like Sigma-Aldrich and TCI Chemicals offer pure Benzyl Salicylate for industrial and research purposes.
  • Online Retailers: Amazon, eBay, and cosmetic ingredient marketplaces provide small quantities suitable for DIY formulations.
  • Perfume Ingredient Shops: Stores specializing in perfume-making ingredients often carry Benzyl Salicylate.

Prices of Benzyl Salicylate

The cost varies based on purity, supplier, and quantity:

  • Small Quantities (30-50 ml): $5 – $15
  • Bulk Purchase (1 kg or more): $50 – $150
  • High-Purity Variants for Research: $200 or more per liter

Conclusion

Because it provides advantages including aroma enhancement and UV protection, benzyl salicylate is essential to the cosmetics and fragrance industries. Those who are sensitive to fragrances should exercise caution, even though it is generally regarded as safe within legal bounds. Knowing its’s characteristics and safety precautions will help you make wise decisions, whether you’re a skincare formulator or a perfume fan.