What’s new?
On the 30th of April 2026, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) approved a new mandate to evaluate the safety of Glyoxylic Acid (CAS No. 298-12-4, EC No. 206-058-5).
This evaluation was triggered by health concerns documented at national level. The French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES) issued an alert in October 2024 after identifying cases of acute kidney failure associated with the use of hair straightening products containing Glyoxylic Acid. In January 2025, ANSES confirmed the ingredient is “very likely” responsible for those adverse effects and formally recommended a risk assessment at European level. Following this recommendation, the European Commission launched a call for data in April 2025, gathering the scientific information that now underpins this mandate.
Glyoxylic Acid is widely used in hair straightening and smoothing products as a milder alternative to formaldehyde-based treatments, acting on the hair’s keratin structure. It can also be found in depilatory products and exfoliating formulations, and is used as a pH adjuster. The ingredient is not currently restricted in the European Union.
What now?
The SCCS has been specifically requested to address the following questions:
- Whether Glyoxylic Acid is safe when used as an ingredient in hair straightening products up to a maximum concentration of 16%.
- Alternatively, what is the maximum concentration considered safe for Glyoxylic Acid in hair straightening products is.
- Whether there are any further scientific concerns regarding the use of Glyoxylic Acid in cosmetic products.
A preliminary opinion is expected within 12 months, following standard SCCS evaluation procedures, with a public consultation period.
