EU SCCS Finds Acetophenone Safe Despite RAC's Proposed Reprotoxic Classification

On May 4, 2026, the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) released a preliminary opinion on the safety of Acetophenone (CAS No. 98-86-2) when present as a constituent of natural ingredients in cosmetic products. The opinion is open for public consultation until July 6, 2026.¹

Acetophenone is an aromatic compound widely used in cosmetics as a perfuming agent due to its sweet and floral scent. It also occurs naturally in various plant extracts—known as Natural Complex Substances (NCS)—such as essential oils, absolutes, gums, and resinoids. In addition to its cosmetic applications, it is authorized in the EU as a food additive under Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 872/2012.