Benzyl Benzoate
benzyl phenylformate; phenylmethyl benzoate
EU Annex III fragrance allergen; naturally in balsam of Peru, balsam of Tolu, and styrax; commonly used as fragrance fixative; moderate sensitization; also has pharmaceutical anti-parasitic use (distinct from cosmetic function); relatively lower sensitization rate than cinnamal or isoeugenol
Function & Common Use
Fragrance / Perfuming / Aroma Chemical / Fixative
Fragrance Materials
Oriental and balsamic perfumes, fixatives, body care, hair care; also has anti-scabies pharmaceutical use
Natural/Synthetic
Concentration Limits
Declaration required above 0.001% leave-on / 0.01% rinse-off
Declaration threshold: 0.001% leave-on / 0.01% rinse-off (EU Reg 2023/1545)
None (FEMA GRAS); IFRA-guided
None specific
Format restriction: EU mandatory declaration when above threshold; IFRA 49th Amendment limits by category
Baby restriction: No
Pregnancy: No
IFRA: Yes - IFRA 49th Amendment; Category 4 (body leave-on): 4.5%; Category 5A (face leave-on): 2.8%; Category 1 (fine fragrance): no restriction; rinse-off: higher limits
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Benzyl Benzoate safe to use in skincare?
Benzyl Benzoate has a Medium concern rating. EU Annex III fragrance allergen; naturally in balsam of Peru, balsam of Tolu, and styrax; commonly used as fragrance fixative; moderate sensitization; also has pharmaceutical anti-parasitic use (distinct from cosmetic function); relatively lower sensitization rate than cinnamal or isoeugenol
Is Benzyl Benzoate allowed in India?
Benzyl Benzoate is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is Declaration required above 0.001% leave-on / 0.01% rinse-off.
What is Benzyl Benzoate used for in cosmetics?
Benzyl Benzoate functions as: Fragrance / Perfuming / Aroma Chemical / Fixative. It is commonly found in: Oriental and balsamic perfumes, fixatives, body care, hair care; also has anti-scabies pharmaceutical use.
Can Benzyl Benzoate cause an allergic reaction?
Yes. Benzyl Benzoate has an allergen flag (Yes - EU Annex III fragrance allergen). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.
Is Benzyl Benzoate safe for babies?
Benzyl Benzoate has baby/child restrictions: No. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
EU Annex: Annex III (fragrance allergen - declaration required)
Identifiers
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