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BUTYL FORMATE.

Optional CAS 592-84-7 / PERFUMING

Butyl formate is a volatile ester compound that serves dual functions as a fragrance ingredient and cosmetic solvent in skincare formulations. This naturally-occurring compound delivers distinctive fruity, plum-like aromatic notes while facilitating the dissolution of other cosmetic components. Its high volatility and potential for skin barrier disruption at elevated concentrations requires careful formulation consideration.

perfuming solvent

Science

Functions primarily through olfactory enhancement, providing characteristic fruity fragrance notes to cosmetic products. As a polar aprotic solvent, it assists in dissolving and stabilizing other formula components, though its volatile nature and potential defatting properties can compromise the skin's lipid barrier when used in excessive concentrations.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range ≤0.5%
Optimal

0.5%

Key findings

  1. 01 IFRA establishes maximum 0.5% concentration threshold in fragrance concentrates to prevent skin irritation and sensitization responses

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

Not typically subject to dusting practices due to its specialized role as fragrance component and solvent rather than active ingredient


The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4.5 – 6.5
0 7 14

Stability

Demonstrates hydrolytic instability in aqueous systems, particularly vulnerable at alkaline pH levels above 7.0 and when exposed to strong oxidizing conditions. Maintains stability under neutral to mildly acidic formulation conditions.

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Caustic solutions
  • Alkali metals
  • Strong acids

Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
0.5%
Sensitization risk Low

Holds FEMA GRAS designation for food applications and appears in EU CosIng database as approved cosmetic ingredient, though subject to IFRA fragrance concentration limitations. Undiluted exposure classified as skin and eye irritant with potential for barrier defatting effects.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Optional

A specialized fragrance ingredient with limited skincare benefits, appropriate for scented formulations when used within established concentration limits.


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References