SCCS Declares Salicylic Acid Unsafe for Children in Certain Cosmetic Products

SCCS Highlights Safety Concerns for Children

The SCCS reviewed Salicylic Acid's safety in cosmetic products, particularly its use as a preservative and other purposes, including as an exfoliating agent. The committee assessed the compound’s safety at various concentration levels for dermal, oral, and rinse-off products, raising concerns about aggregate exposure in children.

• Preservative use: The SCCS found that Salicylic Acid is unsafe as a preservative at concentrations up to 0.5% in all products, except body lotion, under current restrictions. It is also deemed unsafe for sprayable products due to potential lung exposure through inhalation.
• Non-preservative use: For other applications, the maximum safe concentrations are:
  • 3.0% for rinse-off hair products.
  • 2.0% for leave-on products (excluding body lotions and oral products).
  • 0.5% for body lotions and oral products.

Reduced Concentrations Recommended

The SCCS proposed that lowering the concentration of Salicylic Acid in dermal products to 0.1% would ensure safety for children. Products containing Salicylic Acid remain prohibited for children under the age of three under existing regulations.

Eye Irritation and Endocrine Effects

The report underscores that Salicylic Acid poses a significant risk of eye irritation, including serious damage, and highlights concerns about its endocrine-disrupting potential. These findings prompted stricter recommendations for its use in cosmetics targeted at young children.

Public Consultation and Implications

The preliminary opinion, identified as SCCS/1675/25, invites public and industry comments until 10 March 2025. This consultation aims to refine the recommendations further, ensuring consumer safety while maintaining product efficacy.