Following the mandate given by the European Commission to the SCCS in the context of the safety assessment of substances with potential endocrine disrupting properties, the Scientific Committee has just published its preliminary Opinion on Kojic Acid. It was adopted during the plenary meeting on 26-27 October 2021 and is open for comments until 14 January 2022.
Background
Kojic Acid (CAS No.501-30-4, EC No.207-922-4) is used as a skin lightening/whitening or depigmenting agent in cosmetic products.
Currently, it is not regulated under the Cosmetic Regulation (EC) No.1223/2009.
Kojic Acid has been reported to interfere with either iodine organification or iodine uptake by the thyroid, resulting in altered thyroid functions, hence it was included in the priority list for safety assessment.
During the call for data, stakeholders submitted scientific evidence to demonstrate the safety of Kojic acid in cosmetic products. The Commission requests the SCCS to carry out a safety assessment on Kojic acid in view of the information provided.
For an exhaustive background information, see the articles
• Endocrine disruptors: 2nd call for data from the European Commission, CosmeticOBS, 22 February 2021
• Endocrine disruptors: 5 new requests for SCCS Opinions, CosmeticOBS, 15 March 2021
Opinion
1. In light of the data provided and taking under consideration the concerns related to potential endocrine disrupting properties of Kojic acid, does the SCCS consider Kojic Acid safe when used in cosmetic products up to a maximum concentration of 1%?
On the basis of the safety assessment, and considering the concerns related to potential endocrine disrupting properties of …
