Benzyl Benzoate
What benzyl benzoate does as a fragrance material, where it can come from, and how to read its disclosure on cosmetic labels.
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Quick facts
- INCI name
- Benzyl Benzoate
- CAS number
- 120-51-4
- Origin
- Plant-derived or Synthetic
- Chemical class
- Aromatic ester
- What it does in a formula
- perfuming, solvent
- Why it is in the formula
- It contributes to a fragrance blend and can help dissolve or carry aromatic materials.
- Regulatory notes
- Benzyl benzoate is among the fragrance allergens subject to ingredient-label disclosure requirements under EU cosmetics rules above specified levels.
What it is
Found on ingredient decks to disclose regulated fragrance allergens, benzyl benzoate is an aromatic ester used as a scent component and fragrance solvent. It can be made synthetically or present naturally in aromatic plant materials and essential oils. While its required listing helps individuals with specific allergies track exposure, the name alone does not explain the full fragrance blend or origin.
What it does
- Adds to a scent blend. Benzyl benzoate can contribute a soft, sweet or balsamic note to perfume compositions.
- Helps carry fragrance materials. Its solvent properties can help dissolve aromatic ingredients in a blend.
- Can appear in botanical materials. It may be present through an aromatic plant-derived material as well as direct addition. It is a fragrance ingredient, not a skincare essential.
Who it suits
People who enjoy scented products and have no known sensitivity to benzyl benzoate may choose formulas that contain it. People with a confirmed benzyl benzoate allergy should avoid it and follow their clinician’s advice. If you are avoiding fragrance, skip products listing benzyl benzoate and review other scent ingredients, including fragrance and essential oils. There is no skin-care need to add a fragrance material to a routine.
On US labels, benzyl benzoate may appear by name or be included under a general fragrance declaration. As a result, the lack of a separate benzyl benzoate line is not proof that a scented formula contains none. The reverse is also true: seeing the name does not predict that everyone will react. If a product causes persistent discomfort, stop using it and consider the complete ingredient list. A dermatologist can help assess recurring reactions.
What to pair it with, and what not to
Benzyl benzoate adds scent and has no active ingredient pairing. If fragrance avoidance is your goal, check the full label for fragrance and essential oils, rather than looking for this one ingredient alone. You do not need to balance it with another product.
Skin Realist check: A perfume note can be lovely and still be optional. Your moisturizer does not need to smell like a boutique to do its basic job.
Quick picks with Benzyl Benzoate
Brand lists it for sensitive skin
Elemis Frangipani Monoi Body Oil
Frangipani extract, monoi extract, and coconut oil · combination, dry, normal, oily, sensitive skin · scented
AmazonBrand lists it for oily skin
Dermalogica powerbright overnight cream
Niacinamide, hexylresorcinol, pumpkin ferment, and cranberry and raspberry seed oils · oily, dry, combination, sensitive, normal skin · scented
AmazonBrand lists it for dry skin
Elemis Superfood Facial Oil
Broccoli seed oil, linseed oil, cucumber oil, radish extract, squalane, and rosehip oil · combination, dry, normal skin · scented
Amazon
All 18 products with Benzyl Benzoate
Daily Moisturizers & Water Gel Creams (7)
Sulwhasoo Skin Strengthening Emulsion for MenAmazon
Dermalogica powerbright overnight creamAmazon
Dermalogica skin smoothing cream moisturizerAmazon
Perricone MD Cold Plasma Plus+ Sub-D/NeckAmazon
Sulwhasoo Essential Firming Cream EXAmazon
Perricone MD High Potency Classics Face Finishing & Firming MoisturizerAmazon
Dermalogica multivitamin power recovery creamAmazon
Shaving Creams, Gels & Oils (2)
Targeted Vitamin C & Brightening Correctors (2)
Skincare Sets & Routine Kits (2)
Body Creams, Butters & Body Oils (1)
Face Oils & Treatment Oils (1)
Lipsticks, Glosses & Lip Liners (1)
Hydrating Serums, Essences & Ampoules (1)
Daily Sunscreens & SPF Moisturizers (1)
Common questions
What is benzyl benzoate in skincare?
Benzyl benzoate is a fragrance material and solvent used in some cosmetics. It can also occur naturally in certain aromatic plant materials and essential oils.
Is benzyl benzoate a fragrance allergen?
It is a recognized fragrance allergen for some people and is subject to ingredient-label disclosure requirements in the EU above specified levels. Its presence does not mean everyone will react.
Can benzyl benzoate be hidden under Fragrance on a US label?
It may be listed by name or included as part of a fragrance mixture, depending on the product and labeling requirements. Not seeing a standalone benzyl benzoate line does not prove that a scented product contains none.
Should I avoid benzyl benzoate if I avoid fragrance?
Yes. If you are choosing to avoid fragrance, skip products listing benzyl benzoate and check the rest of the label for other scent materials. It is not required for a basic moisturizer or cleanser to work.