Benzyl Salicylate
Benzyl salicylate
- Role
- A scent molecule that is part of the fragrance.
- Catalog formulas
- 20
- Type
- Scent
- Verified
- 06.11.2026
What does this ingredient do in an antiperspirant?
Contributes to the scent of the blend. In 2023 the SCCS assessed it with regard to possible endocrine properties: there are indications of an endocrine mode of action but no evidence of resulting endocrine effects, and it was found safe up to the proposed limits.
Part of a system, not a label in isolation
In an antiperspirant or deodorant it only contributes to the scent and does not reduce sweating. Its presence in the list means the product is fragranced.
In the EU it is on the list of fragrance allergens (Regulation 1223/2009, Annex III, entry 75): it must be named separately in the ingredient list above 0.001% in leave-on and 0.01% in rinse-off products. EU Regulation 2026/909 sets maximum concentrations: up to 0.91% in spray deodorants and up to 0.5% in non-spray leave-on skin products (other than body lotion); new products must comply from 1 January 2027, and non-compliant products may no longer be sold from 1 July 2028.
The 2012 SCCS opinion lists it as an established contact allergen in humans, with 11 to 100 positive patch-test reactions reported.
Not salicylic acid (Salicylic Acid), which is a different substance with its own Annex III entry.
Products containing Benzyl Salicylate
Links are based on the complete published INCI list for the exact product version.
Sources
The conclusions apply to the stated conditions and jurisdictions, not automatically to every concentration or product.
- CosIng Checker: Annex III, entry 75 (Benzyl Salicylate) Supports: restrictions, allergen labelling
- Commission Regulation (EU) 2026/909 Supports: restrictions, deadlines
- SCCS/1656/23: Opinion on Benzyl Salicylate Supports: safety assessment, maximum concentrations
- SCCS/1459/11: Opinion on fragrance allergens in cosmetic products Supports: allergenicity assessment