Octyl salicylate

Octyl salicylate, also known as 2-ethylhexyl salicylate, is an organic compound used primarily in sunscreens. It is an ester that is produced through the condensation of a salicylic acid and 2-ethylhexanol. It is a colorless oily liquid with a slight floral odor.

Chemical Properties

Octyl salicylate is a clear, oily liquid at room temperature. It has a slight, floral odor. The compound is not soluble in water, but it is soluble in oil and alcohol. It has a molecular weight of 250.33 g/mol and a density of 0.87 g/cm3.

Uses

The primary use of octyl salicylate is in sunscreens and other cosmetics due to its ability to absorb ultraviolet (UV) B rays from the sun. It is also used in fragrances due to its slight floral odor. In addition to sunscreens and fragrances, octyl salicylate is also used in bath products, makeup, hair products, and skincare products.

Safety

Octyl salicylate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics. However, it can cause skin irritation in some individuals, especially those with sensitive skin. It is recommended to perform a patch test before using products containing octyl salicylate.

Regulation

In the United States, octyl salicylate is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is considered a Category I (safe and effective) active ingredient in Over-The-Counter (OTC) sunscreen drug products.

See Also

• Salicylic acid
• 2-ethylhexanol
• Sunscreen
• Ultraviolet