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Dec 11, 2025 - Cosmetics

Hexyl Salicylate – Regulation change in the UK

Hexyl Salicylate is an allergenic fragrance with a sweet, floral, and fruity aroma. The substance has been classified as a CMR (carcinogenic, mutagenic, reprotoxic) category 2 on both the EU level and in the United Kingdom (UK).

Initially, no specific UK regulations were in place for the use of Hexyl Salicylate in products specifically designed for children under 3 years of age. At the end of November, the UK informed the WTO (World Trade Organization) about a change regarding the restrictions on the use of Hexyl Salicylate in the UK Cosmetics Regulation. The amendment includes specific concentration limits for products intended for children under 3 years of age, thereby aligning the UK cosmetics law with European cosmetics regulations.

• 2%         for hydroalcoholic based perfumes
• 0.5%      for all rinse-off products
• 0.3%      for all leave-on products
• 0.001% for oral care
• 0.1%      for shower gel, hand soap, shampoo, hair conditioner, body lotion, face cream, hand cream, lipstick/lip care, perfume intended for children under 3 years of age
• 0.001% for toothpaste intended for children under 3 years of age

An explicit warning label on products not intended for children under 3 years of age is nevertheless not required.

Source:

• https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6915d847493305b49ce6e764/sag-cs-opinion-19-hexyl-salicylate-in-cosmetic-products.pdf