Though classified as CMR 2 (as a carcinogenic substance), acetaldehyde is subject to no restriction in cosmetics. The SCCS is requested to give its opinion. The topic: the maximum concentration in cosmetic products.
Acetaldehyde (CAS Nbr 75-07-0) is listed in the European inventory of cosmetic ingredients as a masking agent and nail conditioning agent.
In an opinion released in 2004, the SCCNFP, today known as SCCS, stated that its use as a fragrance/flavour ingredient was safe at a maximum concentration of 0.0025%, and recommended no other restriction.
However, this limit, considered as traces in the 20 ppm range in the finished product, might cause analytical problems. Furthermore, it did not account for the potential exposure to the substance in products other than perfumes.
The industry was, therefore, requested to supply an evaluation of the sources of exposure through cosmetics, and an evaluation of the Acetaldehyde safety. COLIPA has sent its report in July 2011, based on concentrations in the 100 ppm range. The SCCS has now to answer several questions:
•
Is Acetaldehyde safe when used up to 100 ppm as an ingredient in cosmetic products taking into account the new data provided??
•And/or does the SCCS recommend any other concentration limit with regard to the use of Acetaldehyde as an ingredient in cosmetic products?
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Does the SCCS have any further scientific concerns regarding the use of Acetaldehyde in mouth-washing products?
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