Cyclohexyl salicylate emerged in the landscape of fragrance chemistry during the early-to-mid twentieth century, back when the booming cosmetics industry demanded fresh, long-lasting ingredients. For many perfumers, it filled a gap, enabling new types of floral and woody accords that helped shape the scent profiles of an era. Early patents show European companies racing to scale production, capitalizing on its fixative power and compatibility with a wide array of aromatic components. The road from niche specialty chemical to staple ingredient involved industry-wide investment in research, especially as consumers pushed for safer and more stable synthetic fragrances. By the late 1900s, cyclohexyl salicylate became established in commercial blends, championed for both consistency and value.
In everyday applications, cyclohexyl salicylate—often seen on product labels as Heliopan® E-C or simply “salicylic acid cyclohexyl ester”—stands out as a colorless to pale yellow liquid. Its mild, slightly floral scent makes it a valuable additive across perfumes, aftershaves, sunscreens, and even shampoo formulas. Producers supply it to manufacturers looking for a balance of solubility, low volatility, and a subtle olfactory character that never overpowers a finished product. Formula creators prioritize this compound when formulating both mass-market and artisan lines, often citing its stability and the way it plays well with essential oils and other esters.
With a molecular weight near 234 g/mol and a melting point just below room temperature, cyclohexyl salicylate pours easily but solidifies in cooler storage. Its boiling point edges past 320°C, providing solid heat resistance—a practical trait during high-temperature blending or sterilization. While non-polar by nature, it displays enough oil solubility to mingle effortlessly with creams and balms. Its refractive index typically registers above 1.5, signaling purity in analytical settings. The faint floral aroma—subdued by cyclohexane’s presence—becomes most apparent in diluted alcoholic bases, which rely on the compound’s low vapor pressure to maintain fragrance structure over time.
Regulators assign cyclohexyl salicylate a specific CAS number and require manufacturers to set purity thresholds, often exceeding 98%. Labs routinely test for residual solvents, acidity, and color, and documents detail handling precautions, recommended storages temperatures, and container types. Product material safety data sheets (MSDS) outline each batch’s compliance with standards set by organizations like the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) and the United States Pharmacopeia (USP). In the EU, cosmetic labels must list it plainly when concentrations cross certain thresholds, to inform those with sensitivities or allergies. Industry guidance helps brands meet these requirements without sacrificing creative freedom in formulation.
Synthesis of cyclohexyl salicylate relies on esterification—the tried-and-true reaction between salicylic acid and cyclohexanol. A catalyst like sulfuric acid accelerates the process, causing water to split off and drive the formation of the ester bond. Large-scale operations use distillation to purify the liquid, removing unreacted precursors and minor side-products. Some modern facilities opt for alternative, greener catalysts to lower energy consumption and waste. The drive for sustainability has spurred ongoing trials with bio-based feedstocks, allowing for reduced reliance on petroleum-derived inputs while maintaining the essential structural characteristics chemists count on.
One defining trait of cyclohexyl salicylate comes from its aromatic ring, which can act as a platform for further functionalization. Chemists looking to tweak its olfactory qualities sometimes introduce small polar groups onto the benzene ring or substitute different alcohols for cyclohexanol, chasing new ester analogues. While the molecule resists easy degradation, certain strong acids or bases trigger hydrolysis, sending it back to the original alcohol and acid. This trait matters for both product longevity and for environmental fate, since some wastewater treatments leverage these reaction pathways. Advanced research into photolytic breakdown sheds light on how the molecule persists or transforms under sunlight, a key concern in cosmetics destined for outdoor use.
Chemical catalogs and label lists reveal a host of synonyms for cyclohexyl salicylate, including CAS names like “salicylic acid cyclohexyl ester,” and trade designations such as Heliopan® E-C. Industry insiders frequently abbreviate references to CHS, particularly in technical forums or formulation notes. The diversity in naming reflects both global trade conventions and the marketing needs of suppliers who wish to brand their specific purity grades or raw material sources. Anyone navigating procurement or ingredient approvals must cross-check database entries to keep confusion at bay—a lesson many fragrance professionals learn quickly.
Like any ingredient with widespread exposure, cyclohexyl salicylate sits under close safety scrutiny. Decades of studies suggest low acute toxicity when handled properly, though high doses have triggered mild skin sensitization in limited test settings. Regulatory bodies cap its use in certain leave-on cosmetics, especially in products aimed at young children or sensitive populations. In production, quality control protocols emphasize correct PPE—gloves, goggles, ventilation—and storage in tightly sealed drums to keep out moisture and contaminants. Flammability ratings require facilities to limit sources of ignition, particularly in bulk warehouses. Worker safety drills reinforce what older chemists already know: never get complacent with even the mildest reagent.
Fragrance manufacturers represent the main user group, often blending cyclohexyl salicylate into complex flower, herbal, or sea-inspired accords in high-end perfumes and mainstream toiletries. Its mild UV absorbance gave it an early role in some sunscreen prototypes, though modern filters now handle most of the heavy lifting. Shampoo and conditioner brands value the compound’s soft aroma, using it to round off stronger notes that might otherwise dominate a formulation. In soapmaking, its stability and resistance to discoloration have earned it a place in bar and liquid blends. From time to time, air care producers incorporate cyclohexyl salicylate into diffusers or sprays, counting on its faint clean scent and low tendency to trigger respiratory irritation.
Innovation in the synthetic fragrance field marches on, as R&D teams search for ways to pair cyclohexyl salicylate with new sustainables, deploying solid-phase reactors or bio-based cyclohexanol in their pilot plants. Computational chemistry deepens the understanding of how this molecule interacts with skin and mucous membranes, offering clues to further minimize irritation potential. In my own experience working with product development teams, challenges often stem less from the core molecule and more from impurities or trace solvents left over from rapid batch syntheses—a problem manufacturers address with improved vacuum and washing cycles. Competition remains fierce as patent filings describe new ester analogues designed to enhance scent tenacity or cut raw material costs.
Toxicologists approach cyclohexyl salicylate with the same rigor they bring to all fragrance ingredients, dissecting studies on ingestion, skin absorption, and chronic exposure. Repeated tests in rodents and cell cultures aim to pinpoint any possibility of carcinogenicity, endocrine disruption, or persistent bioaccumulation. Independent reviews and government hazard panels rely on this growing body of evidence. Over the years, available research shows relatively low toxicity at the levels typically found in finished consumer goods, though the scientific community remains vigilant. Users with particularly sensitive skin might see rare mild reactions—a reality some dermatologists discuss with clients. Calls continue for longer-term studies examining cumulative low-level exposure, especially as consumers engage with more personal care products over a lifetime.
Looking ahead, cyclohexyl salicylate’s fate hinges on more than technical versatility. Market forces increasingly reward suppliers who develop newer, greener synthesis routes and find ways to lower total environmental impact. Rising consumer awareness—the kind shaped by social media and third-party ingredient review apps—pushes brands to scrutinize each addition to the label. Scientists explore alternative structures with even lower allergen potential, while regulators scan the latest published data to fine-tune allowable levels. As cosmetic chemists balance safety, regulatory compliance, and olfactory artistry, cyclohexyl salicylate will stay subject to careful review and creative adaptation. Partnerships between academia, manufacturers, and regulators could drive the next wave of innovations, ensuring that this compound continues to evolve with shifting industry demands and consumer expectations.
Cyclohexyl salicylate doesn’t get much attention outside of laboratories and manufacturing plants. Plenty of folks would have trouble pronouncing it. But look closely at the back of a favorite bottle of perfume, sunscreen, or even some hair products, and there’s a fair chance this ingredient made its way in. Known for its gentle floral aroma with a soft, sweet hint, cyclohexyl salicylate steps up where other ingredients fall back. The goal isn’t just making products smell nice, though there’s certainly a reason fragrance makers lean on it. This compound helps scents stick around, rounding out sharp notes and giving that lingering impression locked in memory.
Most trips to the store reinforce one thing: people love things that smell good. Whether it’s a body spray, aftershave, or shampoo, every shelf is stacked with scented options. Cyclohexyl salicylate helps blend those smells together. As someone who used to work summer jobs at a local pharmacy, I’d see customers pick up whatever smelled “freshest” without ever flipping the bottle for details. The perfume industry values stability and staying power—qualities cyclohexyl salicylate brings without overpowering other tones. Floral bases, especially jasmine and rose, benefit from its mild character.
This ingredient isn’t just about hair and skin, though. Companies also find value in adding it to household care products—from detergents to air fresheners—thanks to its balanced scent profile. Regulations in the European Union, the US Food and Drug Administration, and agencies around the globe allow cyclohexyl salicylate in specific concentrations, following years of safety data from patch tests and controlled studies. Published toxicological data has shown little evidence of irritation or sensitization within approved limits, which matters to everyone from dermatologists to families with young children.
There’s no hiding the fact that people worry about chemicals in personal care items. With headlines swirling, consumers grew more cautious. Some folks react to certain fragrance ingredients. For people with allergies or sensitive skin, transparency in labeling makes all the difference. It’s not unusual to see social media conversations focused on what goes into soaps, creams, or sprays, and cyclohexyl salicylate sometimes pops up.
Responsible brands now provide better information, helping buyers make choices based on real facts. Ingredient tracking always matters more when skin rashes or headaches turn up, and dermatologists have tools to check for individual triggers. From my experience talking with cosmetics experts, most report that adverse effects from cyclohexyl salicylate in regulated quantities remain rare. Still, research keeps moving, and stricter guidelines result if fresh evidence calls for them.
Demand for safe, pleasant products grows every year. Cyclohexyl salicylate stands as one tool among many. If companies ever need to swap it out, they face the challenge of finding something with similar staying power and a gentle touch. In the meantime, education and full disclosure build trust. The best way forward starts with knowing what’s in every bottle we use, reading labels, and asking good questions at the store. That’s the difference between blind trust and making an informed decision.
Cyclohexyl Salicylate crops up in sunscreens and scented lotions. It absorbs UVB rays and brings a soft floral note to fragrance blends. This ingredient has been in use for decades, and exposure comes from daily products, not just the luxury stuff.
Cosmetic safety reviews matter more than any clever marketing. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has tracked Cyclohexyl Salicylate. According to its 2012 safety assessment, research points to low irritation and allergy risk in typical concentrations found in cosmetics. Animal studies with high doses reveal minor skin reactions. Human patch tests haven’t set off alarms for widespread problems.
Europe’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) capped its use in cosmetics to 5%. The FDA doesn’t single it out, but the ingredient holds a long safety track record in American formulas.
Everyone’s skin reacts differently. Dermatologists rarely flag Cyclohexyl Salicylate as a troublemaker. In my own circle, I’ve seen more irritation from flavoring agents and preservatives than this compound. The ingredient doesn’t stack up among top allergens tracked by North American Contact Dermatitis Group or the European baseline series.
For people with very sensitive skin, it’s smart to check products for added fragrances, since Cyclohexyl Salicylate often teams up with common scent compounds that cause trouble for those prone to rashes or eczema.
Questions have come up about some UV filters and fragrance ingredients, with researchers looking at hormone disruption and environmental buildup. Cyclohexyl Salicylate hasn’t drawn the same scrutiny as oxybenzone or parabens. Extensive studies—like those in the European Union—find no clear evidence of hormonal effects at regular exposure levels. Even so, green beauty advocates keep an eye on cumulative impacts from all synthetic fragrances and filters that rinse off into water systems.
Safety isn’t just about the lab data. Regular users don’t always react the same way. Teenagers slathering sunscreen daily, children with eczema, and adults with perfume allergies may face different journeys. Instructions and labeling play a big role: always patch test new products, especially if you’ve battled unexplained redness or stinging from lotions before.
Trust starts with reading ingredients and getting familiar with brands that publish full formulas and back statements with science. Dermatologists and pharmacists usually know the ins and outs of ingredient history, so reach out before switching routines at the first sign of irritation.
Brands could do better by providing written clarity about why and at what concentration an ingredient like Cyclohexyl Salicylate gets used. Switching to fragrance-free or “allergy-tested” lines helps those affected by recurring dermatological trouble. For the rest, Cyclohexyl Salicylate fits within the tolerated group of cosmetic ingredients—safe for most, but not above scrutiny as research evolves.
Cyclohexyl salicylate comes up in the ingredient lists of sunscreens, perfumes, and cosmetics. It shows up there for a reason—it helps with fragrance, bringing a sweet and slightly floral note. Companies often choose it because it blends well and masks stronger scents. For anyone who enjoys using colognes and creams, it’s probably brushed past your skin more than once. Few of us notice it, until a bottle or lotion sparks an itchy patch or a rash.
Most users never spot a problem. Our skin barriers vary, and some folks carry a greater chance of reacting to new substances. The skin protects, but it can flare up in response to something unfamiliar or a repeated exposure. Cyclohexyl salicylate sometimes turns into one of those reactions. In rare cases, it may start with redness or a mild itch. Few studies flag this chemical as a major allergen compared to preservatives or dyes, but the European Commission tags it as a possible skin irritant. The American Contact Dermatitis Society keeps it on their radar, though it doesn’t top the danger charts.
Allergic responses relate to how our immune system views the ingredient—like an unwelcome stranger. Irritation, though, pops up from skin barrier breakdown. Some of us feel this after several uses, especially if we have existing eczema or sensitive skin. The risk grows when people layer many cosmetic products, raising the chemical load on fragile skin.
A 2018 review in Contact Dermatitis journal mentioned a few patch test studies where a small fraction of patients reacted to cyclohexyl salicylate. Most participants still used it without trouble. Still, any number greater than zero means vigilance matters. People have many options today, and they don’t need to stick to one product if it causes discomfort.
As someone who once swapped to a new moisturizer and discovered a warm, tingling sensation across my cheeks, I learned to check the fine print. Cyclohexyl salicylate sat right there in the middle of the list. I stopped, my skin calmed down, and later I realized my skin builds up sensitivity over time. My neighbor, by contrast, has gone through years of department store creams without a reaction. For those with sensitive skin, being cautious means patch testing on the arm before going all-in with a product.
If a product tingles or burns, the best step remains obvious: rinse it away, then wait. Mild steroid creams may ease a flare-up, but persistent rashes call for expert advice. It helps to save the product label for your dermatologist. Companies now list more details than ever, reflecting demands from people who want to know exactly what touches their skin.
Brands test their ingredients, but no test covers every user’s skin. Those curious about ingredient safety can check resources like the Environmental Working Group Skin Deep Database or PubChem. By learning about what we put on our bodies, people shape their routines and stay a step ahead of unexpected problems. Personal care should never mean discomfort. Skin deserves both pleasure and protection.
Cyclohexyl salicylate, known for its floral scent and sunscreen capabilities, finds its way into perfumes, lotions, and creams. Consumers often trust personal care products from major brands, yet few realize how much safety regulation influences what ends up in a favorite moisturizer. In the European Union, Cyclohexyl Salicylate figures on the list of approved fragrance ingredients. The authorities in Europe set clear limits—up to 1% in finished products—ensuring companies strike a balance between performance and safety. By contrast, in the United States, the FDA doesn’t directly “approve” cosmetic ingredients before market launch. Instead, companies must ensure their products are safe when used as intended, and Cyclohexyl Salicylate, so far, doesn’t appear on restricted or banned lists published by the FDA.
Modern shoppers do not just pick up a bottle from the shelf without thinking. Stories about ingredient safety matter—just recall the public’s concern over parabens or phthalates. Safe, regulated fragrance chemicals become a selling point not just for marketing, but also for building consumer trust. Cyclohexyl salicylate sounds technical, but it’s not exempt from scrutiny. Experts have studied its irritancy and sensitization potential for years. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel in the US, for example, points out that while most people enjoy products with this ingredient without issue, some, especially those with sensitive skin, might experience irritation. In Europe, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety keeps an eye on reported cases of allergy and adjusts guidance if new evidence turns up.
Science doesn’t stand still. Published studies in journals like Contact Dermatitis document rare cases where fragrance chemicals, including Cyclohexyl Salicylate, have caused allergic reactions. Europe maintains a comprehensive database for adverse reactions, which helps regulators respond. Meanwhile, in Asia, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare includes Cyclohexyl Salicylate on its positive list for permitted fragrance materials, reflecting global consensus about certain limits and transparency.
Regulators could do more to bridge the knowledge gap for consumers. Most people read “fragrance” on a label, but don’t realize it hides dozens of individual chemicals. Clear labeling—spelling out not just that a product contains fragrance, but listing common sensitizers like Cyclohexyl Salicylate—would help allergy sufferers steer clear. Real transparency, not technical jargon, would put skin safety in the hands of the person who wears the lotion each day. The European Union’s move to require more explicit fragrance allergen disclosure offers a promising model.
Brands benefit from making safety and transparency a core part of their message. Proactively publishing safety data, reformulating products to reduce the risk of irritation, and listening when consumers highlight skin problems builds real loyalty. Choosing trusted suppliers and lab-tested ingredients reduces risk all around. People with fragrance allergies can ask pharmacists for plain-language ingredient lists or select unscented options. Checking for updates from trusted sources—nonprofit health sites, government health agencies—keeps shoppers informed as product safety science evolves.
Cyclohexyl salicylate plays a quiet but crucial role in many sunscreens and personal care products. Its job? Absorbing some of the UVB rays, providing a bit of fragrance, and stabilizing its neighbors in a busy formula. Lately, people have started to question its safety and environmental impact, and that leads labs and brands to look for new options.
Most chemists know octyl salicylate by reputation. The molecule soaks up UVB rays, feels smooth, and blends in with oils. It smells relatively mild. The main advantage comes from its long-term track record. Dozens of safety reviews clear the ingredient for regular cosmetic use. Unlike cyclohexyl salicylate, possible sensitization issues pop up less frequently in patch test data. Regulations in both Europe and the US accept it up to certain limits, so formulators don’t run into walls with compliance.
Look at almost any mid-market sunscreen, and you bump into ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate. People sometimes call it octinoxate. This ingredient shields against UVB, dissolves well in oil, and rarely causes texture problems. Now, it's flooded with attention because of possible hormone-disruption concerns in animal studies, and restrictions have started showing up, especially in Hawaii and the EU. Brands thinking about ocean-friendliness or babies' skin should weigh the pros and cons here.
Flower and herb extracts, like wintergreen or birch, contain their own salicylate esters. Labs isolate these and add them to perfumes and lotions for floral tones and gentle UV protection. The caveat: natural options sometimes come with natural allergens. Label checking and patch testing become part of quality control. Sourcing from sustainable, transparent suppliers matters for certifications too.
In fragrance-heavy formulas, benzyl salicylate covers both scent and sun, providing some light protection and holding flower notes in place. Plenty of companies moved away from it where possible because of potential allergy labeling in the EU, but the cost and process remain familiar for factories. It’s still in wide rotation, especially in body mists and moisturizers aimed at adults.
People with reactive or sensitive skin often search for “mineral” or “physical” sunscreens made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These work by sitting on top of the skin and bouncing off rays, not soaking them up. The tradeoffs can include a pasty finish or rougher texture, but new processing tech produces smaller particles and lighter lotions now. Unlike chemical absorbers, the minerals hold up in water and don’t usually bother coral reefs.
Switching away from cyclohexyl salicylate isn’t just about swapping one ingredient for another. Brands face a growing wave of consumer scrutiny, with people learning about every label in the products they use. From my own chemistry and consulting experience, testing remains everything. Every change earns a fresh round of stability trials, safety checks, and user panels.
Forward-thinking brands combine thorough lab data with real-world questions: Will the alternative fit sensitive skin? Is it safe for kids? Will it keep working through a beach day, or a sweaty afternoon jog? Sometimes, the answer means simpler ingredient lists. Sometimes, it means a mix of new actives and a stronger focus on transparency. Ingredients get replaced, but trust is what customers keep buying.
| Names | |
| Preferred IUPAC name | 2-hydroxybenzoic acid cyclohexyl ester |
| Other names |
Benzoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, cyclohexyl ester
Salicylic acid cyclohexyl ester Cyclohexyl 2-hydroxybenzoate Hibiscus ketone Cyclohexylsalicylate Cyclohexyl o-hydroxybenzoate |
| Pronunciation | /ˌsaɪ.kləʊˈhɛk.sɪl səˈlɪ.sɪ.leɪt/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 25485-88-5 |
| Beilstein Reference | 607922 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:135246 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL1631757 |
| ChemSpider | 187457 |
| DrugBank | DB11357 |
| ECHA InfoCard | ECHA InfoCard: 100_100_993 |
| EC Number | 202-547-1 |
| Gmelin Reference | 786298 |
| KEGG | C14182 |
| MeSH | D003434 |
| PubChem CID | 70103 |
| RTECS number | GV7875000 |
| UNII | 6B548S806O |
| UN number | UN3082 |
| CompTox Dashboard (EPA) | DTXSID7020373 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C13H16O3 |
| Molar mass | 220.29 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow transparent liquid |
| Odor | sweet, herbal, balsamic |
| Density | 1.08 g/cm3 |
| Solubility in water | insoluble |
| log P | 4.2 |
| Vapor pressure | 0.0011 mmHg (25 °C) |
| Acidity (pKa) | 13.8 |
| Basicity (pKb) | 8.55 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | -74.5·10⁻⁶ cm³/mol |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.525 |
| Viscosity | 38.8 mPa·s (at 20°C) |
| Dipole moment | 2.71 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 465.6 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -492.1 kJ/mol |
| Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298) | -7267.6 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | D02AA14 |
| Hazards | |
| GHS labelling | GHS07, GHS09 |
| Pictograms | GHS07 |
| Signal word | Warning |
| Hazard statements | H317: May cause an allergic skin reaction. |
| Precautionary statements | P261, P272, P273, P280, P302+P352, P321, P362+P364, P333+P313, P501 |
| Flash point | > 110°C |
| Autoignition temperature | 354 °C |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD50 oral rat 3450 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (median dose): Oral rat 3,000 mg/kg |
| NIOSH | WA2625000 |
| PEL (Permissible) | PEL: Not established |
| REL (Recommended) | 1.5% |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds |
Phenyl salicylate
Benzyl salicylate Amyl salicylate Octyl salicylate Menthyl salicylate |
