On 8 May 2024, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) announced that it had received France’s proposal for harmonised classification and labelling of Resorcinol, in particular as an endocrine disruptor for human health.
Resorcinol (No.CAS: 108-46-3 ; No.EC: 203-585-2, INCI: Resorcinol) is an ingredient listed in Cosing, with the functions: Antioxidant, Denaturant, Hair dyeing, Perfuming.
It is regulated by Annex III/22 (Restricted substances) of European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009, which limits its maximum concentration to 0.5% in hair lotions and shampoos, and restricts the use of products intended for colouring eyelashes containing it to professionals. It also stipulates that under oxidative conditions the maximum concentration applied to hair or eyelashes must not exceed 1.25%.
It is also listed in Annex VI/604-010-00-1 of European CLP Regulation 1272/2008. Since the publication of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/197 (21st ATP of CLP), applicable from 1st September 2025, its classifications are as follows:
• Acute Tox. 4, H302 - Harmful if swallowed
• STOT SE 1, H370 (nervous system) - Causes damage to organs
• Skin Irrit. 2, H315 - Causes skin irritation
• Eye Irrit. 2, H319 - Causes serious eye irritation
• Skin Sens. 1B, H317 - May cause an allergic skin reaction
• Aquatic Acute 1 - M = 1, H400 - Very toxic to aquatic life
As it had expressed its intention in September 2023, France is now proposing to add the following classification …
