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BUTYL BENZYL PHTHALATE.

Avoid CAS 85-68-7 / PLASTICISER

A synthetic phthalate ester traditionally employed as a plasticizer and solvent in cosmetic formulations, particularly nail products and fragrances. While historically considered safe at concentrations below 1%, this ingredient is now banned in the EU due to endocrine disruption concerns and reproductive toxicity classification.

plasticizer solvent fragrance ingredient

Science

Functions by inserting between polymer chains to enhance film flexibility and prevent cracking in nail formulations, while serving as a fixative in fragrances by equalizing vapor pressure of aromatic compounds to extend scent longevity.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.1–1%
Optimal

0.5%

Key findings

  1. 01 200-volunteer patch test demonstrated absence of primary irritation or sensitization at 100% concentration (Journal of American College of Toxicology, 1992)
  2. 02 CIR safety assessment established <1% threshold for topical cosmetic use (1992, reaffirmed 2017)

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

Not typically subject to dusting due to regulatory restrictions and safety concerns in modern formulations


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Demonstrates stability under standard storage conditions but requires protection from temperature extremes. Susceptible to ester hydrolysis under extreme pH conditions.

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong acids
  • Strong bases

Safety

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
1%
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk Low

Banned in EU under Annex II of Cosmetics Regulation. Classified as Category 1B reproductive toxin and endocrine disruptor. Restricted in ASEAN and China markets.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Avoid

Despite low irritancy profile, regulatory restrictions and endocrine disruption concerns make this ingredient inadvisable for modern precision skincare formulations.


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References