What’s new?
On the 30th of April 2026, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has published a preliminary scientific opinion evaluating the safety of the aromatic compound Acetophenone (CAS No. 98-86-2) as a constituent in Natural Complex Substances (NCS). This assessment was conducted under Article 15(2)(d) of the EU Cosmetics Regulation, which provides a safety pathway for substances classified as CMR (Carcinogenic, Mutagenic, or toxic to Reproduction) when sufficient safety data demonstrates their safe use in cosmetics.
The assessment addresses the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) opinion classifying Acetophenone as a category 1B reproductive toxicant (Rep. 1B), which would typically prohibit its use in cosmetic products. The SCCS evaluation was requested by the European Commission to determine whether industry-submitted safety data could support continued use as a constituent in NCS under the CMR derogation provisions.
Acetophenone is permitted as a food additive in the European Union, and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) concluded that the substance does not present a safety concern at current low levels of intake when used as a flavouring agent.
This Opinion only refers to Acetophenone in NCS but not to NCS themselves.
Key provisions:
The SCCS considers Acetophenone safe when present up to 100 ppm (0.01%) in cosmetic products, taking also into account sources of exposure other than cosmetics (food, tobacco smoking).
What now?
The preliminary opinion is open for comments until 6 July 2026.
- SCCS will review submitted comments during working group meetings
- Final Opinion expected following comment evaluation and potential revisions
