Benzyl Alcohol

Benzyl Alcohol

• INCI Name: Benzyl Alcohol
• Molecular Formula: C₇H₈O
• CAS Number: 100-51-6

• Alternate Names:
  • Phenylmethanol
  • Benzenemethanol
  • α-Hydroxytoluene
  • Fragrance Alcohol
  • Aromatic solvent alcohol

• Benefits & Uses (Short):
  • Solvent for fragrances, resins, and dyes
  • Preservative in cosmetics and skincare
  • Mild antimicrobial agent
  • Adds light sweet-floral aromatic nuance
  • Used in perfumes, creams, lotions, shampoos, liquid soaps, injectable formulations (pharma grade)

• How It Works (Short):
  • Works as a polar aromatic alcohol that dissolves both organic fragrance compounds and some water-soluble ingredients
  • Inhibits microbial growth by disrupting bacterial enzyme activity and cell membrane function
  • Acts as a co-solvent, improving stability and clarity in formulations
  • Evaporates slowly, contributing mild fragrance support without dominating scent profile
  • Helps stabilize formulations by reducing contamination risk in water-containing systems
  • Improves blending of aromatic materials in both cosmetic and fragrance bases

• FAQs:

  Q: Is Benzyl Alcohol safe in cosmetics?
  A: Yes, it is widely approved for use in regulated concentrations.

  Q: Does Benzyl Alcohol smell strong?
  A: It has a mild sweet, slightly floral aroma but is mostly functional in formulations.

  Q: Why is it used in perfumes?
  A: As a solvent, preservative, and mild fragrance supporting ingredient.

  Q: Can it preserve skincare products?
  A: Yes, it has antimicrobial properties that help extend shelf life.

  Q: Is it natural or synthetic?
  A: It can be derived naturally or produced synthetically for industrial use.