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SEC-BUTYL ALCOHOL

CAS 78-92-2
60

Safety score · 0–100

Fine

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

About

Sec-butyl Alcohol is a cosmetic ingredient used in product formulations. Exercise caution due to limited available safety data.

sec-Butyl alcohol (also 2-butanol) is a secondary alcohol that functions as a fragrance ingredient and denaturant in cosmetic formulations. It is listed in EU CosIng Annex III (restricted substances) as a denaturant with specific purity requirements. Like other lower-chain alcohols, it can cause skin dryness and mild irritation with prolonged or occluded exposure. It is not classified as a fragrance allergen under IFRA and does not appear in EU Annex II. The restriction to denaturant use in cosmetics limits its scope and concentration, resulting in a moderate safety score.

Skin benefits

  • Used as fragrance component
  • Denaturant for cosmetic formulations

Known concerns

  • May cause skin dryness with prolonged use
  • Mild eye irritant
  • Restricted in EU to denaturant use only

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.