Benzyl Salicylate Aroma Chemical
CAS# 118-58-1

With its gentle scent and broad versatility, it is not merely a fragrance ingredient but also functions as a base, solvent, and stabilizer in many complex formulas. Its odor is very subtle and delicate, often described as having a sweet floral note, a mild spiciness, and a slight balsamic nuance. Benzyl Salicylate is an ideal foundation for floral accords and is often used to evoke a warm sensation in summer fragrances.

In terms of origin, Benzyl Salicylate occurs naturally in certain floral essential oils such as ylang-ylang and hyacinth. However, to meet industrial-scale demand, it is produced mainly by synthetic means via an esterification reaction between benzyl alcohol and salicylic acid. In appearance, at room temperature, Benzyl Salicylate is a colorless or nearly colorless liquid with a light viscosity.

Notably, it also has UV-absorbing capability, a feature that makes it a functional ingredient in sunscreens. The history of Benzyl Salicylate in this industry dates back quite early, around the late 19th century, and it was also among the pioneering ingredients used in the first sunscreen formulations, often combined with benzyl cinnamate.

Description

From an olfactive standpoint, Benzyl Salicylate is classified in the Floral family, with sweet facets and a warm balsamic character. However, its role in a fragrance formula is highly versatile and goes far beyond a simple note: it can act as a modifier, a blender, and an effective fixative. Importantly, it is also an excellent solvent for other materials, especially synthetic musks that exist in crystalline form.

In compositions, Benzyl Salicylate is a perfect base for floral accords-particularly carnation, jasmine, lilac, and ylang-ylang. It helps round out and link ingredients, creating a smooth, seamless overall effect. With its distinctive “solar” (sun-warmed) impression, it is often used to suggest the warm, sunscreen-like feel typical of summer fragrances. One of its most classic uses is in the “Mellis accord,” where it blends with eugenol, patchouli, and lily-of-the-valley notes, forming a foundation for many well-known perfumes-most notably Dior’s Poison.

The scent of Benzyl Salicylate is characterized by such softness and subtlety that some people find it difficult to detect. In Perfume and Flavor Chemicals, expert Steffen Arctander describes its odor as “very faint, sweet, slightly floral, and with a little balsamic character.” He also notes that some people consider it virtually odorless, while others perceive a “musk-like” smell. Although its odor intensity is weak, the material has remarkably strong substantivity, reportedly lasting over 400 hours on a blotter strip.

Technically, Benzyl Salicylate itself is an effective solvent capable of dissolving many other materials, so it does not need to be pre-diluted before use.

Applications

Thanks to its versatility, Benzyl Salicylate is found in many everyday consumer products. It is commonly used in perfumery; skincare products such as moisturizers and sunscreens; haircare products including shampoos and conditioners; as well as soaps, scented candles, and household cleaning products. In addition, it is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as a flavoring agent in foods.

However, its use is strictly regulated due to its potential to cause skin sensitization. According to IFRA’s 49th Amendment, the maximum permitted level in products such as fine fragrance (Category 4) is 7.3%. From a safety standpoint, Benzyl Salicylate is classified among substances with allergenic potential. Therefore, under European Union regulations, manufacturers must list “Benzyl Salicylate” on ingredient labels if its concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products. Although it is generally considered a weak sensitizer, individuals with a history of fragrance allergies should take extra care when using products containing this ingredient.

Benzyl Salicylate is a familiar component in many well-known products on the market. It appears in classic and modern perfumes such as Chanel No. 5, Tom Ford Ombré Leather, and Lancôme La Vie Est Belle, as well as in body-care lines from brands like Sol de Janeiro.