Menthyl Anthranilate

Menthyl anthranilate is a fragrance/flavoring and UV-absorbing agent used at low concentrations, but it can act as a sensitizer and has documented potential for allergic contact dermatitis in fragrance-exposed populations. Even when non-phototoxic, anthranilate-derived fragrance materials can trigger irritation or delayed hypersensitivity in eczema-prone or barrier-compromised skin, especially with cumulative leave-on exposure. Given patient-safety considerations and sensitization risk, it should be treated as a notable irritant requiring caution and patch testing in sensitive users. Safety Notes: Menthyl anthranilate is used as a UV-absorbing/photoprotective and fragrance component in consumer leave-on products (e.g., sunscreens, after-sun/anti-itch or sensorial “cooling” lotions) where it often appears at low sub-percent levels (~0.05–0.5%) as a supporting ingredient. High-strength OTC formulations marketed for enhanced UV support or sensorial/fragrance impact can reach a few percent, with observed upper-end use around ~5% in niche consumer products. It is far less common in rinse-off products and is typically kept lower in leave-on formulas due to potential sensitization/odor and regulatory/IFRA-style use considerations depending on product category.