Butyloctyl Salicylate

Butyloctyl Salicylate

8.2

Ingredient Info

Butyloctyl Salicylate is a conditioning agent derived from salicylic acid (the same compound used in acne treatments). In skincare products, it works as a skin and hair conditioning ingredient, helping to soften and smooth the skin's surface at typical use levels of 0.5–5%.



Benefits

  • Conditions and softens skin
  • Improves skin texture and smoothness
  • Lightweight conditioning without heavy residue

Potential concerns

  • May cause irritation or sensitization in formulations that are not properly balanced
  • Some salicylates are absorbed through the skin; long-term effects of topical absorption are not extensively documented

Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel (2025) concluded that Butyloctyl Salicylate is safe in cosmetics at current use levels when formulated to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing. The ingredient has low acute toxicity via dermal exposure, though around 10% of applied salicylates may remain in the skin.



×

Report an issue with this ingredient