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Methyl Salicylate

What Methyl Salicylate is & what it does

Methyl Salicylate is an aromatic ester naturally found in wintergreen and several other plants, also produced synthetically. In cosmetics it is used mainly as a fragrance and flavoring agent and contributes a characteristic minty, wintergreen scent. It is a recognized fragrance allergen for some people and is regulated for use at limited concentrations.

Is Methyl Salicylate safe?

Methyl Salicylate is permitted in cosmetics at regulated concentrations and is considered safe within those limits. It is a recognized fragrance allergen, so it can cause sensitivity in some people and must be declared on labels above set thresholds. People prone to fragrance reactions may want to avoid it or patch test.

What does Methyl Salicylate do in skincare?

Methyl Salicylate is used mainly as a fragrance and flavoring agent, contributing a minty, wintergreen scent. It is not primarily a skincare active in cosmetic formulas. Its role is largely sensory rather than functional.

Is Methyl Salicylate natural or synthetic?

Methyl Salicylate occurs naturally in wintergreen and some other plants, and it is also produced synthetically. The version used in a given product may be either natural or synthetic depending on the supplier. Both forms are the same chemical compound.

Sunscreens with Methyl Salicylate

We rate 8 sunscreens that contain it:

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