Following the mandate given by the European Commission to the SCCS in February 2020, in the framework of the evaluation of ingredients listed as endocrine disruptors, the Scientific Committee has just published its preliminary Opinions on the safety of Propylparaben (preservative) and Homosalate (UV filter). They were adopted at the CSSC plenary meeting of 27-28 October 2020 and are open for comments until 4 January 2021.
Propylparaben
Background
Following the publication of a list of 14 substances suspected of acting as endocrine disruptors to be assessed on a priority basis, and the subsequent call for data, the European Commission asked the SCCS for its Opinion on the safety of five substances: Benzophenone-3, Octocrylene, Resorcinol, Homosalate and Propylparaben.
Propylparaben is currently regulated as a preservative at a concentration of up to 0.14%, and 0.8% for mixtures of parabens.
For an exhaustive background information, see the article
• Endocrine disruptors: 5 requests for SCCS Opinions, CosmeticOBS, 10 February 2020
Opinion
1. In light of the data provided and taking under consideration the concerns related to potential endocrine disrupting properties of Propylparaben, does the SCCS consider Propylparaben safe when used as a preservative in cosmetic products up to a maximum concentration of 0.14 %?
On the basis of the safety assessment of Propylparaben, and considering the concerns related to potential endocrine disrupting properties, the SCCS has concluded that Propylparaben is safe when used as a preservative in cosmetic products up to a maximum concentration of 0.14%.
2. Alternatively, what is according to the SCCS, the maximum concentration considered safe for use of Propylparaben as a preservative in cosmetic …