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Moumoujus

PHENETHYL BUTYRATE.

Optional CAS 103-52-6 / PERFUMING

Phenethyl Butyrate is an ester valued for its pleasant floral and fruity aroma, frequently incorporated into skincare for its perfuming and masking capabilities. While its direct dermatological benefits are not clinically established, its metabolic breakdown products may offer indirect advantages for skin health.

Summary

Perfuming Masking Fragrance agent Antimicrobial booster (via metabolite) Anti-inflammatory support (via metabolite)

Science

Mechanism of Action

Upon application, Phenethyl Butyrate undergoes hydrolysis, yielding phenethyl alcohol and butyric acid. Phenethyl alcohol exhibits mild antimicrobial activity, potentially enhancing the efficacy of conventional preservatives. Its more significant metabolite, butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid, has been investigated for its capacity to modulate skin's immune responses. This includes inhibiting inflammatory cytokines and cells, promoting regulatory T-cell proliferation, and inhibiting histone deacetylase (HDAC), which may contribute to skin repair, epithelization, and mitigating inflammation, particularly that associated with S. aureus.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Phenethyl Butyrate is primarily utilized for its aromatic profile and masking properties, not as an active ingredient requiring specific 'dusting' concentrations for direct dermatological effects.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Phenethyl Butyrate is readily soluble in oils and miscible in ethanol at room temperature, though it is largely insoluble in water. No specific optimal pH range for its stability was identified in the available research.

Synergies

  • Its metabolite, phenethyl alcohol, can complement traditional preservative systems.
  • Butyrate's potential anti-inflammatory actions may synergize with ingredients aimed at skin barrier support or microbiome balance.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

Phenethyl Butyrate has been thoroughly evaluated by RIFM and is not expected to be genotoxic, phototoxic/photoallergenic, or cause skin sensitization under declared levels of use; human maximization tests confirmed no sensitization reactions. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) found no safety concerns at current intake levels when used as a flavoring agent. It is classified by the FDA as a synthetic flavoring substance. Aggregated GHS information indicates it does not meet GHS hazard criteria.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Optional

Phenethyl Butyrate is an optional ingredient primarily valued for its aromatic contribution to formulations, with potential indirect benefits from its active metabolites in modulating inflammation and boosting antimicrobial activity.

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