Ingredient review
Ethyl Anthranilate
INCI: Ethyl Anthranilate
Ethyl Anthranilate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient that adds a floral, grape-like scent but offers no skincare benefits and may be a concern for those with fragrance sensitivities.
In plain English
Ethyl Anthranilate is a man-made chemical that smells like grapes or flowers. It is added to skincare and beauty products purely for its pleasant scent. It does not moisturize, treat, or improve your skin in any way. If you have sensitive skin or are avoiding fragrances, you may want to check product labels for this ingredient.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Ethyl Anthranilate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Ethyl Anthranilate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Ethyl Anthranilate is an ester compound produced synthetically for use as a fragrance ingredient. It is also found naturally in some fruits like grapes and is used in food flavoring, but in cosmetics it serves only as a scent additive.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, Ethyl Anthranilate contributes to the overall fragrance profile. It does not have any active skincare function—it simply evaporates from the skin, releasing its scent. It is typically used at very low concentrations to avoid irritation.
Pros
Pleasant scent
Adds a sweet, fruity aroma that many find appealing, making the product more enjoyable to use.
Low irritation risk at low levels
When used at typical low concentrations, Ethyl Anthranilate has a low irritation potential for most people.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
This ingredient does not hydrate, protect, or improve skin health—it is purely for fragrance.
Potential allergen
As a fragrance ingredient, it can cause allergic reactions or irritation in sensitive individuals, especially with repeated use.
Best for
- People who enjoy scented skincare and do not have fragrance allergies
- Those looking for a synthetic, consistent scent in their products
Use caution if
- Individuals with sensitive skin or known fragrance allergies
- Anyone following a fragrance-free skincare routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
Ethyl Anthranilate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at low concentrations by major regulatory bodies, but it can be a skin sensitizer for some individuals. It poses no known serious health risks when used as intended.
Research notes
Research on Ethyl Anthranilate focuses on its fragrance properties and potential as a UV filter. Studies indicate low acute toxicity, but it is recognized as a potential allergen in fragrance-sensitive populations.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at very low levels, often below 1% in leave-on products.
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions, with concentration limits set by fragrance industry guidelines to minimize sensitization.
- Common uses
- Fragranced skincare, Perfumes, Body lotions, Cleansers
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, its environmental impact depends on production methods and disposal; it is not known to be bioaccumulative.
Good to know
- Ethyl Anthranilate is sometimes used in sunscreens as a UV absorber, but this is rare and not its primary cosmetic role.
- It is regulated as a fragrance ingredient and must be listed on labels when present.
Common questions
What is Ethyl Anthranilate in beauty products?
Ethyl Anthranilate is a man-made chemical that smells like grapes or flowers. It is added to skincare and beauty products purely for its pleasant scent. It does not moisturize, treat, or improve your skin in any way. If you have sensitive skin or are avoiding fragrances, you may want to check product labels for this ingredient.
What does Ethyl Anthranilate do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, Ethyl Anthranilate contributes to the overall fragrance profile. It does not have any active skincare function—it simply evaporates from the skin, releasing its scent. It is typically used at very low concentrations to avoid irritation.
Is Ethyl Anthranilate safe for most people?
Ethyl Anthranilate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at low concentrations by major regulatory bodies, but it can be a skin sensitizer for some individuals. It poses no known serious health risks when used as intended.
Who should be careful with Ethyl Anthranilate?
Individuals with sensitive skin or known fragrance allergies Anyone following a fragrance-free skincare routine
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.