Proposals for EU harmonised classification and labelling of Bronopol and Aminomethyl Propanol
Ingredients: AMINOMETHYL PROPANOL, BRONOPOL

Date of publication: 2023

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has received two proposals for harmonised classification and labelling for two cosmetic substances: Aminomethyl Propanol, used as buffering agent, and Bronopol, used as preservative. If the harmonised classification process is completed, the use of Aminomethyl Propanol and Bronopol in cosmetic products may be threatened.

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has received two proposals for harmonised classification and labelling for two cosmetic substances: Aminomethyl Propanol, used as buffering agent, and Bronopol, used as preservative.

Aminomethyl Propanol (CAS 124-68-5) is included in Annex III/61 to the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 (list of substances which cosmetic products must not contain except subject to the restrictions laid down).

Austria has proposed to classify Aminomethyl Propanol as:

  • Skin Irrit. 2, H315 – Causes skin irritation.
  • Eye Irrit. 2, H319 – Causes serious eye irritation.
  • Repr. 1B, H360D – May damage the unborn child.
  • Aquatic Chronic 3, H412 – Harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects.

Date of submission: 17 february 2023

Bronopol (CAS no 52-51-7) is included in Annex V/21 to the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 (list of preservatives allowed in cosmetic products).

Spain has proposed to classify Bronopol as:

  • Acute Tox. 3, H301 – Toxic if swallowed
  • Acute Tox. 4, H312 – Harmful in contact with skin
  • Acute Tox. 3, H331 – Toxic if inhaled
  • Skin Irrit. 2, H315 – Causes skin irritation
  • Eye Dam. 1, H318 – Causes serious eye damage
  • STOT SE 3, H335 – May cause respiratory irritation
  • Aquatic Acute 1, H400 – Very toxic to aquatic life (M=10)
  • Aquatic Chronic 2, H411 – Toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects

Expected date of submission: 31 december 2023

-> If the harmonised classification process is completed, the use of Aminomethyl Propanol and Bronopol in cosmetic products may be threatened.

References:

European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) – Registry of CLH intentions until outcome

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