Nov 10, 2026 - Cosmetics

Acetophenone in cosmetics - SCCS considers quantities of up to 100 ppm safe

The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has published its final opinion on the safety of Acetophenone (CAS No. 98-86-2, EC No. 202-708-7). The opinion was adopted on 14 October 2026 and published on 15 October 2026.

The assessment was prompted by a possible classification of acetophenone as a reproductive toxicant category 1B (Repr. 1B) under the CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. Acetophenone can be present as a component of so-called Natural Complex Substances (NCS) in cosmetic products.

Based on the available data, the SCCS reached the following conclusion:

Acetophenone is considered safe at a maximum concentration of 100 ppm (0.01 %) in the finished cosmetic product
This assessment applies to products for adults as well as to products for children aged 3 years and older
The safety assessment also took into account possible exposure from sources other than cosmetics
The assessment relates to acetophenone as a constituent of Natural Complex Substances, not to the safety of the respective NCS as a whole.
For manufacturers of cosmetic products, the opinion is particularly relevant when assessing the safety of raw materials and formulations that contain natural complex substance mixtures. The established concentration of 100 ppm therefore provides an important reference point for evaluating acetophenone in the finished cosmetic product.

The final opinion is numbered SCCS/1689/26 and is available free of charge on the European Commission's website.

If you have questions regarding the safety assessment of cosmetic products, ingredients, or regulatory requirements, the BAV Institute is happy to assist you.

Source:

https://health.ec.europa.eu/document/download/bef7f14c-5d4d-46e8-92da-026d88fd92bc_en?filename=sccs_o_311.pdf