What’s new?
On the 26th of March 2026, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) adopted its final scientific advice on Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA), a widely used synthetic antioxidant in cosmetic products. The preliminary opinion was open for comments until January 19, 2026, and considering the information received during the commenting period, the SCCS released its final advice with changes in physico-chemical characteristics, toxicological evaluation and comments on carcinogenicity.
This scientific advice was requested by the European Commission to evaluate BHA in light of concerns related to potential endocrine disrupting properties.
BHA (CAS No. 25013-16-5, EC No. 246-563-8) is a monohydric phenolic antioxidant with the chemical name 2-tert-butyl-4-methoxyphenol. It is currently not regulated under the Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009, however, it has been used for decades in personal care, pharmaceutical, and food industries as an antioxidant and fragrance agent. Cosmetic products often contain antioxidants like BHA to prevent the oxidation of fats and oils.
BHA is closely related to BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), which was recently evaluated by the SCCS in view of its potential endocrine activity (SCCS/1636/21).
Key findings:
The SCCS considers the use of BHA in dermal leave-on and rinse-off cosmetic products safe up to a concentration of 0.07%.
The opinion did not consider oral care or cosmetic products that may lead to exposure of the end user’s lungs by inhalation. The assessment has not covered the safety of BHA for the environment.
What now?
The European Commission will likely amend Annex III of the Cosmetics Regulation to implement these restrictions, with typical transition periods of 18-24 months for compliance.
