Moderate Cosmetic Ingredient GHS Classified

Mesitylene

INCI: MESITYLENE

CAS Number
108-67-8
Function
Solvent
Safety Rating
MODERATE

Regulatory Status

🇪🇺 EU Status permitted
🇺🇸 US Status permitted
US Notes Allowed - not specifically prohibited or restricted; subject to general safety substantiation

For full compliance data across 55 jurisdictions, use the Substance Compliance tool.

Safety Data

Margin of Safety (MoS)
not established
Dermal Absorption
low
Sensitization
low

Calculate MoS for your specific formulation with the MoS Calculator.

GHS Hazard Classification

Globally Harmonized System classification per ECHA C&L inventory and ILO/WHO International Chemical Safety Cards.

Short-term Exposure Effects
The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. If this liquid is swallowed, aspiration into the lungs may result in chemical pneumonitis. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system.
Long-term Exposure Effects
The substance defats the skin, which may cause dryness or cracking. Repeated or prolonged inhalation may cause effects on the lungs. This may result in chronic bronchitis. The substance may have effects on the central nervous system and blood. See Notes.
Routes of Exposure
The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation.

Expert Verdict

Moderate concern - volatile aromatic hydrocarbon; potential skin and respiratory irritant; classified under CLP as harmful if inhaled (H304 aspiration hazard for related hydrocarbons); inhalation exposure should be minimized; not a typical consumer-facing ingredient. Aromatic solvent with a boiling point of ~165°C; primarily used as a processing solvent rather than a functional ingredient in finished goods; its volatility and aromatic nature limit consumer-product applications

⚠️
Concern Level: Moderate

Regulatory Flags

ifra_fragrance

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mesitylene safe in cosmetics?

Moderate concern - volatile aromatic hydrocarbon; potential skin and respiratory irritant; classified under CLP as harmful if inhaled (H304 aspiration hazard for related hydrocarbons); inhalation exposure should be minimized; not a typical consumer-facing ingredient. Aromatic solvent with a boiling point of ~165°C; primarily used as a processing solvent rather than a functional ingredient in finished goods; its volatility and aromatic nature limit consumer-product applications The EU classifies Mesitylene as "permitted". Safety rating: MODERATE.

Is Mesitylene allowed in the EU?

Mesitylene EU regulatory status: permitted. This is based on EU Regulation 1223/2009 and its amendments.

What does Mesitylene do in cosmetics?

Mesitylene functions as: Solvent. It is classified as a cosmetic ingredient in our database. CAS number: 108-67-8.

What is the Margin of Safety for Mesitylene?

not established The Margin of Safety (MoS) is calculated using SCCS methodology. A MoS above 100 is generally considered safe. Use the MoS Calculator tool to calculate MoS for your specific formulation and product category.

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