On 21 August 2024, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the Agency responsible for the CLP Regulation in Great Britain, published its opinions proposing the harmonised classification and labelling of nine substances. Some of these may be used in cosmetics, including Benzoyl peroxide, o-Phenylphenol and 16 “carbaldehydes”.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Dibenzoyle peroxyde (CAS No.94-36-0 - EC No.202-327-6 - INCI: Benzoyl Peroxide) is listed in the CosIng with the function of oxidising.
In Europe
It is regulated in Annex III, entry 94, to Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009, which limits its use to artificial nail systems for professional use with a limited maximum concentration in finished products (after mixing) of 0.7%.
It is currently listed in Annex VI, entry 617-008-00-0 to Regulation CLP 1272/2008, with the classifications:
• Org. Perox. B, H241 - Heating may cause a fire or explosion
• Eye Irrit. 2, H319 - Causes serious eye irritation
• Skin Sens. 1, H317 - May cause an allergic skin reaction
• Pictograms: GHS02, GHS01, GHS07
• Hazard statement: Dgr (Danger)
In December 2022, the Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) agreed to the proposal by Ireland to classify dibenzoyl peroxide as:
• Aquatic Acute 1, H400 - Very toxic to aquatic life (M-factor = 10)
• Aquatic Chronic 1, H410 - Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects (M-factor = 10).
In Great Britain
HSE proposes the following classifications:
• Org. Perox. B, H241 - Heating may cause a fire or explosion
• …
