T-BUTYL BENZOYL PEROXIDE

About T-BUTYL BENZOYL PEROXIDE

An organic peroxide primarily used as an industrial polymerization initiator — its presence in cosmetics is highly unusual. Multiple serious safety hazards including fire risk, skin/eye irritation, sensitization, and severe aquatic toxicity.

Detailed Analysis

T-butyl benzoyl peroxide (tert-butyl peroxybenzoate, CAS 614-45-9, PubChem CID 11966, C₁₁H₁₄O₃) is an organic peroxide primarily used industrially as a radical initiator for polymer synthesis. It carries multiple GHS hazards: H242 (heating may cause fire — organic peroxide), H315 (skin irritation), H317 (skin sensitization), H332 (harmful if inhaled), H371 (may cause organ damage), H400 (very toxic to aquatic life), H410 (very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects). Its listing as a UV absorber in cosmetics is extremely atypical and may reflect erroneous classification. The extensive hazard profile, including fire risk, aquatic toxicity, sensitization, and potential organ damage, makes it inappropriate for routine cosmetic use.

What It Does

Skin Benefits

• ✓ No established skin benefits as a cosmetic ingredient

Known Concerns

• ⚠ H242 — heating may cause fire (organic peroxide danger)
• ⚠ H315 — causes skin irritation
• ⚠ H317 — may cause allergic skin reactions
• ⚠ H332 — harmful if inhaled
• ⚠ H371 — may cause organ damage (single exposure)
• ⚠ H400/H410 — very toxic to aquatic life, long-lasting environmental effects
• ⚠ Highly unusual in cosmetic applications — verify intended use

References