The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has issued a preliminary opinion on the safety of acetophenone (CAS No. 98-86-2, EC No. 202-708-7), a substance commonly used in cosmetic formulations as a fragrance ingredient and solvent component. The assessment forms part of the ongoing evaluation of fragrance-related substances under the EU Cosmetics Regulation.
Based on the available toxicological data, the SCCS has evaluated acetophenone with regard to its potential risks to human health, focusing on systemic exposure, dermal absorption, and potential irritation or sensitization effects. The preliminary findings indicate that acetophenone does not raise immediate safety concerns for consumers when used within the concentration limits typically reported in cosmetic products.
The Committee reviewed existing data on acute toxicity, repeated dose toxicity, genotoxicity, and local tolerance. While acetophenone shows low acute toxicity, the SCCS emphasized that exposure assessment is critical, particularly for leave-on products where prolonged skin contact may occur. The opinion also notes that current available data are generally sufficient but still contain certain gaps regarding long-term exposure scenarios across multiple product categories.
The SCCS concludes that, under the evaluated conditions of use, acetophenone is unlikely to pose a risk to human health. However, the opinion remains preliminary, and stakeholders are invited to provide additional scientific data or comments before the final conclusion is adopted. This includes any new toxicological studies or refined exposure assessments that could influence the risk characterization.
The final SCCS opinion will contribute to potential regulatory decisions under the Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, particularly regarding Annex III restrictions or conditions of use, if deemed necessary.
For now, acetophenone remains considered acceptable for use in cosmetic products, pending final scientific review.
