What it is
Benzyl benzoate is the benzyl ester of benzoic acid, occurring naturally in some balsams and essential oils and also made synthetically. In cosmetics it functions as a fragrance component and as a solvent that can dissolve other materials and act as a fixative to help hold scent. In sunscreens it usually appears as part of the fragrance system rather than as a primary active.
Safety & warnings
Benzyl benzoate is one of the fragrance allergens that the EU requires to be declared on the label when present above set thresholds, and it can cause reactions in fragrance-sensitive individuals. Patch testing is reasonable for those with known perfume sensitivities. It is not generally regarded as comedogenic.
Origin & sourcing
Found naturally in materials such as Peru balsam and certain essential oils, and also produced synthetically.
Questions everyone asks
Why is benzyl benzoate in sunscreen?
It is typically present as part of the fragrance, where it acts as a scent ingredient, solvent, and fixative that helps hold the fragrance.
Is benzyl benzoate an allergen?
It is a labeled fragrance allergen in the EU and can affect people who are sensitive to fragrance, so patch testing is sensible if you react to scented products.