INCI Name: Benzyl Alcohol
CAS Number: 100-51-6
Molecular Formula: C₇H₈O
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid with a mild aromatic odor
Solubility: Soluble in alcohol and water
Benzyl Alcohol is a versatile, aromatic alcohol widely used as a preservative, solvent, and fragrance ingredient in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial formulations. Naturally found in many essential oils and fruits, it offers antimicrobial properties that help stabilise products and extend shelf life—especially when paired with other preservatives. It's commonly used in lotions, creams, serums, and rinse-off products due to its effectiveness and skin compatibility at low concentrations.
In addition to its preservative function, Benzyl Alcohol acts as a solvent for active ingredients and can be used as a fragrance fixative or viscosity reducer. It complies with global regulatory standards and is accepted in natural and organic formulations. Whether you're formulating clean beauty products or professional-grade cosmetics, Benzyl Alcohol is a reliable multifunctional ingredient with broad application potential.
Cosmetics & Personal Care:
Creams, lotions, and emulsions
Serums and gels
Shampoos and conditioners
Baby care and sensitive skin products
Organic and natural formulations
Pharmaceutical & Industrial:
Topical and injectable drug formulations (as a preservative)
Solvent for inks, dyes, and coatings
Fragrance fixative in perfumes and colognes
Broad-spectrum preservative activity (often used with potassium sorbate or dehydroacetic acid)
Mild and non-irritating at recommended use levels
Low volatility, suitable for leave-on and rinse-off formulations
Enhances solubility of poorly soluble ingredients
Approved for use in natural/organic formulations
Fragrance-compatible, does not interfere with scent profiles
Typical usage rate:
As a preservative: 0.5–1.0%
As a solvent/fragrance carrier: up to 5%
Works best in combination with other preservatives
Stable in a wide pH range (3–8)
Compatible with most emulsifiers and surfactants
Heat stable—can be added during heated phases of production