Benzyl alcohol is a colorless liquid with a mild pleasant aromatic odor. 

Acts as a preservative for food products, playing an important role in extending the shelf life of cosmetics and personal care products. In addition, acts as a Bacteriostatic preservative, benzyl alcohol prevents the growth of bacteria without destroying it, which means your personal care products won't become bacterial breeding grounds, but won't wipe out any bacteria it may come in contact with. Benzyl Alcohol is added to sterile water to produce bac water.

Benzyl Alcohol has been used as a solvent for inks, paints, lacquers, and epoxy resin coating. Benzyl alcohol, along with Benzyl Benzoate, is used in a wide variety of cosmetics and personal care products.