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Salicylic Acid in Cosmetics: Widely Used, Now Re-evaluated for Children
Salicylic acid (CAS No. 69-72-7; EC No. 200-712-3) is a common cosmetic ingredient valued for its exfoliating, anti-acne, and preservative properties.
It is used in various rinse-off and leave-on products, including shampoos, facial cleansers, and body lotions. As a preservative, it is regulated in Annex V of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, with a maximum authorised concentration of 0.5% in most products.
Although its use in adult cosmetics has been assessed in previous opinions, the European Commission recently asked the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) to examine specifically the safety of salicylic acid in cosmetics for children under three years old.
Why Did the SCCS Assess Children’s Exposure?
Children may be more sensitive to cosmetic ingredients due to their thinner skin, higher surface area-to-body weight ratio, and different usage habits. Additionally, salicylic acid may be present in several daily products, increasing the potential for cumulative exposure.
To ensure that existing concentration limits remain appropriate for this age group, the SCCS evaluated whether the use of salicylic acid in cosmetics is still considered safe in light of current scientific data.
SCCS Conclusion: Use of Restrictions in Young Children
In its final opinion published in May 2025, the SCCS concluded that:
- Salicylic acid used as a preservative up to 0.5% in cosmetic products remains safe for the general population, including children over the age of 3.
- For children under 3 years old, products containing salicylic acid should generally be avoided, except for rinse-off products like shampoos, where exposure is limited and short in duration.
The SCCS also highlighted that the evaluation did not cover potential exposure by inhalation or oral routes, such as in sprays or lip care products. These product types would require separate assessments.
What Should Manufacturers Do?
Now, this publication is an SCCS opinion, and the European Commission will evaluate whether it is worth including the data in the Cosmetic Regulation. We will keep you informed about any news.
For now, cosmetic brands using salicylic acid should:
- Review product portfolios, especially those targeting infants or toddlers, to know which products could be affected if the regulation changes.
- Ensure compliance with current concentration limits and product types allowed under EU law.
- Be ready to update safety documentation, such as Cosmetic Product Safety Reports (CPSRs), and ensure proper labelling in line with restrictions.
- Stay informed about possible future amendments to the annexes of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 based on SCCS findings.
How Can Cosmeservice Help?
At Cosmeservice, we guide cosmetic companies through every stage of regulatory compliance. If your formulations contain salicylic acid, particularly in products for children, we can help you:
- Review ingredient concentrations.
- Adjust formulations where needed.
- Update your CPSRs and Product Information Files (PIFs).
- Ensure labelling and claims meet EU legal requirements.
Let our regulatory experts help you stay compliant, safe, and confident in your product launches across the EU market, and sign up for our newsletter to stay informed about future amendments to the Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009.
