Is Benzyl Alcohol Bad for You? Safety Explained

Benzyl alcohol is generally considered low in toxicity, and in cosmetics it is used at low concentrations as a preservative and sometimes for fragrance. It is a colourless liquid with a mild, floral, rose-like scent that is found in soaps, creams, lotions, shampoos and facial cleansers.

What the evidence says

• Acute toxicity is low, and the body breaks it down to benzoic acid, which is then excreted.
• It is not considered a carcinogen.
• Allergic sensitisation is rare, but it is classed as able to cause an allergic skin reaction (H317) and serious eye irritation (H319) in concentrated form.
• Very high doses can be harmful, and it is toxic to newborns when given by certain routes, which is why medical products for neonates avoid it.

Should you avoid it?

Most people can use products containing benzyl alcohol without trouble. If you have very sensitive skin or know you react to preservatives, patch test products first, and ask a pharmacist or dermatologist for advice about persistent irritation.

This is general information, not medical advice.

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