Snapshot
- Overview
- A wintergreen-scented ingredient that adds a cooling, warming feel.
- Category
- Fragrance
- Type
- Fragrance
Methyl Salicylate
Methyl salicylate is an aromatic ester, synthesized or sourced from wintergreen, used in fragrance and topical cosmetic products for its minty, cooling scent and perceived warming sensory feel in balms and scented formulas.
Like this ingredient?
Our take
Is Methyl Salicylate a Good Ingredient?
It's valued for its distinctive wintergreen scent and warming sensation, but offers minimal direct skin benefit and carries a notable irritation or sensitization risk, especially on sensitive or compromised skin, which is why it rates Fair.
What it does
Skin Benefits
Provides a sharp, wintergreen aroma that can improve freshness perception, and produces a warming or tingling sensation that some users find pleasant during application.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
Used in fragranced body lotions, foot creams, and massage balms. Also found in roll-on formats and scented rubs for localized sensory effect.
Before you use it
Safety
May irritate skin or eyes and can provoke reactions in those sensitive to salicylates; avoid on broken or compromised skin. Industry limits guide safe use, yet individual tolerance varies. Discontinue if persistent redness, stinging, or excessive warmth occurs.
Products with Methyl Salicylate
