The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety has recently issued a preliminary opinion on the safety of Heliotropin (piperonal) when used in cosmetic products. Heliotropin is a fragrance ingredient widely used to impart sweet, floral notes, particularly in fine fragrances and personal care products.
The SCCS assessment was specifically triggered by the Committee for Risk Assessment’s (RAC) recommendation to classify Heliotropin as a Reproductive Toxicant Category 1B (Repr 1B). Under Article 15 of the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, such a classification typically leads to a ban unless a rigorous safety exemption is justified.
In these preliminary findings, the SCCS concluded that Heliotropin is safe up to a maximum concentration of 1.8% when used in fine fragrances for adults only.
As this is a preliminary opinion, it is currently subject to a public consultation period that remains open until June 15, 2026. Brand owners, particularly those in the luxury fragrance sector, should review their formulations to ensure they align with this 1.8% threshold. While the scientific outlook is favourable, the final adoption of this opinion will eventually dictate the legal limits for Heliotropin in the European market.
