[Updated] EU SCCS Releases the Final Opinion on Hexyl Salicylate

Editor's note: This article was originally published on November 10, 2023, and was updated on March 14, 2024, as per the latest developments. The updated contents are marked in red below.

On November 9, 2023, EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) issued a preliminary opinion regarding the use of Hexyl Salicylate (CAS No. 6259-76-3) in cosmetics. After a thorough consultation phase, SCCS published the final opinion on March 11, 2024, reaffirming the initial conclusion.¹

Hexyl Salicylate is a fragrance ingredient often found in decorative cosmetics, fine fragrances, shampoos, toilet soaps, and other toiletries. In March 2022, the Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) recommended classifying it as "Toxic for Reproduction Category 2" and "Skin Sensitizer Category 1". Consequently, it is expected that the European Commission will incorporate this classification into Regulation 1272/2008 on Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Substances and Mixture (CLP Regulation). Considering the existing prohibition of CMR substances (those classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction) in Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 (Cosmetics Regulation), such classification may potentially lead to a ban on the use of Hexyl Salicylate in cosmetics.

To support the safe use of Hexyl Salicylate in cosmetics, the industry submitted a dossier in December 2022, proposing concentration limits for different product categories. Based on the provided information, SCCS conducted a safety assessment on Hexyl Salicylate, and concluded that it is safe for use at the concentrations specified below: 

Further Reading

• EU SCCS Finalizes the Opinion About Hydroxypropyl p-Phenylenediamine and Its Dihydrochloride Salt

• EU SCCS Consults on the Opinion About Acetylated Vetiver Oil

• EU SCCS Finalizes the Opinion on Silver Zinc Zeolite