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MAGNESIUM SALICYLATE.

Insufficient Data CAS 18917-89-0 / PRESERVATIVE

Magnesium salicylate is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) primarily recognized for its systemic effects in pain and inflammation management. In cosmetic applications, it serves as a preservative and possesses the intrinsic mechanism of an anti-inflammatory agent.

Preservative Anti-inflammatory (via NSAID mechanism)

Science

This compound exerts its action by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, specifically both COX-1 and COX-2. This enzymatic blockade subsequently reduces the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, which are crucial lipid mediators responsible for initiating and propagating inflammation, pain, and fever responses.


Research

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A


Transparency

Not commonly dusted

No available data indicates that Magnesium Salicylate is an ingredient typically associated with 'dusting' phenomena in skincare formulations.


The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 3 – 5.5
0 7 14

Stability

Magnesium salicylate tetrahydrate presents as a nonhygroscopic crystalline powder, offering enhanced stability compared to its highly hygroscopic, amorphous anhydrous counterpart. Salicylates generally maintain optimal stability within an acidic pH range, typically below 5.5, and can exhibit instability in formulations that are neutral to alkaline. However, certain topical compositions incorporating salicylates are formulated within a pH range of 5 to 7.

Conflicts

  • Other salicylates (e.g., aspirin), to prevent cumulative exposure or potential over-irritation when formulating topical products.

Safety

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Sensitization risk Moderate

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that Magnesium Salicylate, alongside other salicylates, is safe for use in cosmetics under specific conditions: formulations must actively prevent skin irritation and avoid exacerbating the skin's sensitivity to sun exposure. If an increase in sun sensitivity is anticipated, product directions must clearly advise daily sun protection. The CIR has not established specific maximum concentrations for Magnesium Salicylate in cosmetics. For contextual guidance on salicylates, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has recommended limits for Salicylic Acid (the parent compound): up to 0.5% when used as a preservative in cosmetic products, and up to 2.0% for other product types (excluding certain categories at 0.5%), or 3.0% for rinse-off hair products. Magnesium Salicylate is also approved by the FDA as an over-the-counter (OTC) medication for systemic pain relief, though oral forms carry significant warnings regarding gastrointestinal issues (ulcers, bleeding) and Reye's syndrome in children and teenagers recovering from viral infections.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Insufficient Data

While Magnesium Salicylate demonstrates a scientifically established anti-inflammatory mechanism as an NSAID and functions as a preservative in cosmetics, its specific clinical efficacy and optimal concentrations for targeted topical skin benefits lack comprehensive published data.


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