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Moumoujus

ETHYL SALICYLATE.

Optional CAS 118-61-6 / PERFUMING

Ethyl Salicylate is an organic ester primarily valued for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which it exerts locally on the skin. It also serves as a fragrance ingredient, imparting a characteristic wintergreen scent, and readily penetrates the stratum corneum.

Summary

Anti-inflammatory Analgesic Fragrance

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, thereby reducing the biosynthesis of prostaglandins that mediate inflammation and pain. Upon topical application, it is absorbed into the skin, where it acts locally and partially hydrolyzes into salicylic acid. A mild vasodilatory effect also contributes to enhanced local blood flow.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 A 0.5% concentration in a cream formulation demonstrated skin absorption rates of 12.0 ± 1.0% (unoccluded) and 24.7 ± 1.3% (occluded) of the applied dose over 24 hours. Salicylic acid, its hydrolysis product, was also accounted for in these absorption values.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Ethyl Salicylate is an active ingredient and fragrance compound, not typically considered for 'dusting' due to established mechanisms and regulatory guidelines for its use.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Ethyl Salicylate exhibits chemical stability under normal conditions but is susceptible to hydrolysis in strongly acidic or alkaline environments. Optimal stability is anticipated within a neutral to near-neutral pH range.

Conflicts

  • Concurrent use with other topical medications or products containing salicylates due to increased risk of irritation and side effects.
  • Strong acidic or alkaline conditions, which can lead to hydrolysis.
  • Application to broken or irritated skin, to avoid adverse reactions.
  • Use with caution by individuals taking anticoagulant medications.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used with restrictions
Max tested
0.0064%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel considers Ethyl Salicylate safe for cosmetic use, provided it is formulated to be non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and does not increase sun sensitivity. If sun sensitivity is a concern, daily sun protection should be advised. The maximum recommended use level in cosmetic formulations is 0.0064%. For fine fragrances, maximum skin levels are estimated at 0.14%. It's important to note that SCCS opinions primarily concern Salicylic Acid, not Ethyl Salicylate directly. The FDA classifies Ethyl Salicylate as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use as a food additive.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Optional

Ethyl Salicylate offers localized anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits, primarily acting as a fragrance in precision skincare, requiring careful formulation to ensure safety and avoid potential irritation, especially for sensitive or compromised skin.

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