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Isoamyl Acetate

What Isoamyl Acetate is & what it does

Isoamyl Acetate is an ester with a characteristic banana-like, fruity scent, made by combining isoamyl alcohol and acetic acid. In cosmetic formulas it is used mainly as a fragrance component and occasionally as a solvent. Its low molecular weight gives it a noticeable, pleasant aroma at small concentrations.

Is Isoamyl Acetate safe?

Isoamyl Acetate is a fragrance ester used at small concentrations in cosmetics and is generally considered safe at those levels. As a fragrance component it can occasionally cause sensitivity in fragrance-reactive skin, so patch testing is reasonable. We cannot make medical claims, so consult a professional if you have concerns.

What does Isoamyl Acetate do in skincare?

It is used mainly as a fragrance ingredient, giving a fruity, banana-like aroma, and occasionally as a solvent. Its low molecular weight means a noticeable scent at small amounts. It contributes to the sensory experience rather than a skincare action.

Is Isoamyl Acetate natural or synthetic?

Isoamyl Acetate occurs naturally in fruits like bananas, but the cosmetic-grade material is usually made synthetically by combining isoamyl alcohol with acetic acid. The synthetic and natural forms are the same molecule.

Sunscreens with Isoamyl Acetate

We rate 5 sunscreens that contain it:

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