Butyloctyl Salicylate

Good

Emollient

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-sensitising.

Butyloctyl Salicylate references

  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, June 2019, pages 1-60
  • https://online.personalcarecouncil.org/ctfa-static/online/lists/cir-pdfs/FR766.pdf
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2003, pages 1-108
  • https://www.deepdyve.com/lp/sage/safety-assessment-of-salicylic-acid-butyloctyl-salicylate-calcium-klHNmxZGsR?articleList=%2Fsearch%3Fquery%3Dbutyloctyl%2Bsalicylate

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.