METHYL SALICYLATE is graded C (Moderate) by Expert·ING, based on COSING, FDA regulatory data. It is restricted under Health Canada (Restricted).
METHYL SALICYLATE
Wintergreen Oil
Safety grade: C
Methyl salicylate is a naturally occurring compound found in wintergreen plants and birch trees that has a distinctive minty, cooling scent. It's commonly known as the ingredient that gives wintergreen its characteristic sharp, fresh aroma.
This ingredient is used in cosmetics to add pleasant fragrance, make the product taste bitter to discourage accidental ingestion, and provide a cooling, soothing sensation on the skin.
Graded using: COSING, FDA.
- Health Canada — Restricted
Last verified: May 26, 2026
Safer alternatives to METHYL SALICYLATE
- BISABOLOL — Grade A. Plant extract with soothing and skin-conditioning properties similar to methyl salicylate's cooling effect.
- EUCALYPTOL — Grade A. Natural volatile oil providing both denaturant function and mild cooling/soothing sensations on skin.
- CENTELLA ASIATICA EXTRACT — Grade A. Botanical extract offering soothing and skin-conditioning benefits comparable to methyl salicylate's soothing action.
Other Soothing ingredients
- ALLANTOIN — Grade A
- MENTHOL — Grade C
- SUCROSE — Grade A
- JOJOBA ESTERS — Grade A
- ZINC CHLORIDE — Grade B**
- POTASSIUM NITRATE — Grade A**