Butyloctyl Salicylate

Butyloctyl Salicylate at a Glance

• Functions as skin-softening agent
• May be used as a solvent in cosmetic formulations
• Also included in hair care for conditioning properties
• Deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel

Butyloctyl Salicylate Description

Butyloctyl salicylate is a synthetic ingredient that functions as a softening agent for skin. It can also be used as a solvent in cosmetic formulations to dissolve or break down other ingredients, such as gases or solids, to form a solution. In hair care, it is used as conditioning agent.

The results of a concentration use survey conducted reported by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) in 2018 indicated that butyloctyl salicylate is being used at concentrations up to 35.9% in leave-on products, including makeup (the highest concentration was found in lipsticks). For skin care products, the concentration is usually much lower (around 5% or less).

The CIR Expert Panel concluded that butyloctyl salicylate is safe in the present practices of use, when formulated to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing.

Butyloctyl Salicylate References