Description
Benzyl salicylate is an ester, described as the ester of benzyl alcohol and salicylic acid. An ester results from the combination of an acid with an alcohol, and in cosmetics many esters are used as components of aromatic compositions or as formulation aids. It declares two technical functions, perfuming and light stabilizer: in general, the first corresponds to ingredients that impart or adjust the odor of the formula, and the second to ingredients that reduce the effects of light on the product.
In Annex III of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, the annex of substances restricted subject to conditions, the substance holds reference 75 and has concentration limits by product type: "(a) Fragrance products (hydroalcoholic and non-hydroalcoholic, spray and non-spray)" "4 %"; "(b) Rinse-off skin and hair products (except shower gel/bath products)" "0,5 %"; "(c) Shower gel/bath products" "1,3 %"; "(d) Leave-on skin and hair products (non-spray/non-aerosol) (except body lotion)" "0,5 %"; "(e) Leave-on hair products (spray/aerosol)" "0,5 %"; "(f) Body lotion" "0,7 %"; "(g) Face make-up and make-up remover products" "0,2 %"; "(h) Oral products" "0,004 %"; "(i) Deodorant products (spray/aerosol)" "0,91 %". These limits are supplemented by the following condition: "The presence of the substance shall be indicated in the list of ingredients referred to in Article 19(1), point (g), when its concentration exceeds: — 0,001 % in leave-on products — 0,01 % in rinse-off products." The cosmetic restriction associated with the ingredient is III/75.
The usual role of the perfuming function in a formulation is to take part in the fragrance composition or to attenuate the inherent odor of other raw materials, whereby it plays a part in the final aroma of the product. Light stabilizers are incorporated to limit the deterioration of the product through exposure to light. The information presented is for technical reference only and does not constitute a recommendation for use or an efficacy claim.