SCCS seeks public comment on Aluminium Compounds Safety in Cosmetic Products

The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has issued a safety opinion regarding the use of aluminium compounds in cosmetic products. The SCCS considers aluminium compounds are safe when used in non-sprayable product categories at maximum levels, provided that the percentage of particles/droplets with a diameter of less than 10 μm does not exceed 20% of the total aerosolised particles/droplets. However, this opinion does not cover sunscreen aerosol sprays, as aluminium is not bioavailable from talc up to a level of 2%.

The SCCS has no further scientific concerns regarding the use of aluminium compounds in cosmetic products, as aluminium does not belong to substances classified as CMR 1A or B. The safety assessment considers exposure from cosmetic uses, but aggregated exposure from cosmetics and food may exceed safe limits for consumers at the highest exposure ranges. The Opinion specifically covers the risk to consumers from exposure to aluminium from cosmetic products, and does not address the safety of talc in cosmetic products beyond the safety of the aluminium content in talc.

Deadline for comments is on February 16, 2024.