On 3 April 2023, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) launched a consultation on a harmonised classification and labelling proposal from Sweden for Potassium Bromide, which can be used in cosmetics as a viscosity control agent.
Potassium Bromide (CAS: 7758-02-3; CE: 231-830-3) is an ingredient listed in the Cosing, with the declared function “Viscosity controlling”.
It is not currently regulated by the Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 nor is it listed in Annex VI of the CLP Regulation 1272/2008.
Sweden proposes to classify the substance as follows.
Hazard class and Category codes, Hazard statement codes
• Repr. 1B, H360FD - May damage fertility. May damage the unborn child
• Lact., H362 - May cause harm to breast-fed children
• STOT SE 3, H336 - May cause drowsiness or dizziness
• STOT RE 1, H372 (nervous system) - Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure
Pictogram, Signal word codes
• GHS08
• GHS07
• Dgr (Danger)
The ECHA consultation is open until 2 June 2023.
If the process of classification as Repr. 1B is completed, the substance could have its authorisation for use in cosmetic products called into question, due to its CMR status.
Sources
• Harmonised classification and labelling - consultations - potassium bromide, ECHA, 3 April 2023
• CLH report - Proposal for Harmonised Classification and Labelling - : Potassium bromide, Swedish Chemicals Agency, 10 …
