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A preliminary opinion on Aluminium compounds, particularly Aluminium in cosmetics, was issued by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) and it is open for comments until February 16, 2024.
Aluminium in cosmetic: Aluminium compounds background
Aluminium and its compounds are commonly found in cosmetic products like deodorants, antiperspirants, lipsticks, and toothpaste, regulated by the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009.
Following a 2013 Norwegian study revealing that cosmetic products, especially antiperspirants, significantly contribute to systemic aluminium exposure, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) assessed the potential health risks. Despite initial challenges in risk assessment due to limited data on dermal penetration, subsequent industry submissions in 2016 led to SCCS declaring aluminium compounds safe at defined concentrations in various cosmetic products.
However, recent concerns about aggregate exposure from both cosmetic and non-cosmetic sources prompt a reevaluation by the SCCS, necessitating an update of use concentrations based on new information from the Aluminium consortium.
Understanding the SCCS opinion
In light of the new data provided, the SCCS consider Aluminium compounds safe when:
- in non-sprayable product categories at the maximum levels indicated in the following table:
- in sprayable products, at the maximum levels indicated in above table, 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. Sunscreen aerosols are not covered.
- in talc due to the fact that aluminium is not bioavailable from talc up to a level of 2%.
Aluminium in cosmetics: Conclusions
This preliminary opinion focuses on Aluminium’s cosmetic use, particularly in deodorants, antiperspirants, lipsticks, and toothpaste, addressing consumer safety concerns.
The SCCS consider Aluminium compounds safe on maximum levels indicated according to the product categories. In sprayable products the percentage of particles/droplets with a diameter of less than 10 μm does not exceed 20% of the total aerosolised particles/droplets. Sunscreen aerosols are not included.
This Opinion does not address the safety of the use of talc in cosmetic products beyond the safety of the aluminium content in talc.
If you’re looking to ensure the safety of your products, we’re here to provide you with answers and specialized guidance. Contact us at info@cosmeservice.com. We’re here to help!
