UK SAG-CS issues Opinions on Formaldehyde Releasers, Homosalate, and 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor
Ingredients: Formaldehyde-releasing substances, Homosalate, 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor

Date of publication: 21/05/2025
The UK's Scientific Advisory Group on Chemical Safety (SAG-CS) published three critical opinions addressing formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, homosalate UV filter safety, and 4-MBC safety concerns for cosmetic products.

What’s new?

On 21 May 2025, SAG-CS published three opinions addressing key cosmetic ingredient safety concerns in the UK market. These replace EU SCCS reliance post-Brexit, covering formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, UV filter Homosalate assessment, and 4-MBC safety evaluation following industry data calls.

Formaldehyde-Releasing Substances

  • Current 0.05% labeling threshold insufficient for consumer protection
  • New recommended threshold: 0.001% (10 ppm) for both leave-on and rinse-off products (aligning with EU requirement)
  • Affects DMDM Hydantoin, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Diazolidinyl Urea, and other Annex V preservatives

Homosalate Safety Confirmed

  • Safe at 10% maximum concentration in sunscreen products

4-MBC Safety Concerns

  • Cannot conclude safety for cosmetic use
  • Exhibits endocrine disrupting properties in vivo

What now?

  • 3-6 months: Expected OPSS consultation on regulatory amendments
  • 6-12 months: Potential UK Cosmetics Regulation updates

References

SAG-CS Opinion 16: Formaldehyde Releasing Substances, June 2024 (Updated May 2025)

SAG-CS Opinion 17: Homosalate use in cosmetic products, March 2025

SAG-CS Opinion 18: 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor as a UV Filter, March 2025

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