Methyl-p-Coumarate vs. Salicylic Acid

Attribute	Methyl-p-Coumarate	Salicylic Acid
Chemical Formula	C11H10O3	C7H6O3
Structure	Phenolic compound with a coumarate group	Phenolic compound with a carboxylic acid group
Function	Used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals	Used in skincare products for its anti-inflammatory properties
Solubility	Insoluble in water	Soluble in water

Introduction

Methyl-p-Coumarate and Salicylic Acid are two organic compounds that are commonly used in various industries for their unique properties. In this article, we will compare the attributes of these two compounds to understand their differences and similarities.

Chemical Structure

Methyl-p-Coumarate, also known as 3-(4-methoxyphenyl)prop-2-enoate, is an ester of p-coumaric acid. It has a molecular formula of C11H10O4 and a molecular weight of 198.2 g/mol. On the other hand, Salicylic Acid, also known as 2-hydroxybenzoic acid, has a molecular formula of C7H6O3 and a molecular weight of 138.1 g/mol. The chemical structures of these two compounds are quite different, with Methyl-p-Coumarate having a longer carbon chain compared to Salicylic Acid.

Physical Properties

When it comes to physical properties, Methyl-p-Coumarate is a white crystalline solid with a melting point of around 70-72°C. It is sparingly soluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone. On the other hand, Salicylic Acid is a white crystalline powder with a melting point of around 159°C. It is slightly soluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents.

Uses

Methyl-p-Coumarate is commonly used in the fragrance industry as a component in perfumes and cosmetics. It has a sweet, floral scent that is often used to enhance the overall fragrance of a product. On the other hand, Salicylic Acid is widely used in the pharmaceutical and skincare industries for its anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties. It is commonly found in acne treatments and anti-aging products.

Biological Activity

Both Methyl-p-Coumarate and Salicylic Acid have been studied for their biological activities. Methyl-p-Coumarate has been shown to have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, making it a potential candidate for use in food preservation and pharmaceutical applications. Salicylic Acid, on the other hand, is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is often used to treat various skin conditions such as acne and psoriasis.

Toxicity

It is important to consider the toxicity of these compounds when using them in various applications. Methyl-p-Coumarate is considered to be relatively safe for use in cosmetics and food products, with low acute toxicity levels. However, prolonged exposure to high concentrations of Methyl-p-Coumarate may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. Salicylic Acid, on the other hand, can be more irritating to the skin, especially at higher concentrations. It is important to use Salicylic Acid products as directed to avoid any adverse effects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Methyl-p-Coumarate and Salicylic Acid are two organic compounds with distinct properties and uses. While Methyl-p-Coumarate is commonly used in the fragrance industry for its sweet scent, Salicylic Acid is known for its anti-inflammatory properties in skincare products. Understanding the differences between these two compounds can help in choosing the right ingredient for a specific application.