Methyl Benzoate
What Methyl Benzoate is & what it does
Methyl Benzoate is an aromatic ester used in cosmetics mainly as a fragrance component and solvent. In a sunscreen or skincare formula it can contribute scent and help dissolve other oil-soluble ingredients. A notable property is its pleasant, sweet floral odor, which is why it appears in many fragrance blends.
What does Methyl Benzoate do in skincare?
Methyl Benzoate is used in cosmetics mainly as a fragrance component and as a solvent. It contributes a sweet, floral scent and can help dissolve other oil-soluble fragrance materials in a formula. It is typically present in small amounts as part of a fragrance blend.
Is Methyl Benzoate safe in cosmetics?
Methyl Benzoate is used as a fragrance ingredient at low levels in cosmetics. As with fragrance materials in general, people with fragrance sensitivities may prefer to avoid it or patch test first. If you know you react to scented products, look for fragrance-free options.
Is Methyl Benzoate natural or synthetic?
Methyl Benzoate occurs naturally in some plants and essential oils, but the cosmetic-grade material is commonly produced synthetically for consistency. The compound is identical whether natural or lab-made. Labels do not always specify the source.
Sunscreens with Methyl Benzoate
We rate 9 sunscreens that contain it:
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Nivea Sun Protect & Dry Touch SPF 30
82/100
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Boots
No7 Protect&perfect Intense Advanced Facial Sun Protection SPF 30
79/100
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Boots
No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Facial Sun Protection SPF 50
79/100
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Douglas Sun Protection Face Cream SPF30
77/100
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Nivea Sun Protect And Dry Touch SPF 50
75/100
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Coola Full Spectrum 360° Mineral Sun Silk Moisturizer Organic Face Sunscreen SPF 30
72/100
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Nivea Sun Protect & Moisture SPF 50+
72/100
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Coola Full Spectrum 360º Refreshing Water Cream Organic Face Sunscreen SPF 50
69/100
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Coola Full Spectrum 360° Refreshing Water Mist Organic Face Sunscreen Spf 18
68/100