What’s new?
The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has published its final opinion on Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (EHMC), also known as Octyl Methoxycinnamate or OMC. This safety assessment addresses the continued use of EHMC as a UV filter in cosmetic products, following ongoing scientific discussions regarding its safety profile and potential endocrine disrupting properties.
EHMC is currently listed in Annex VI of the EU Cosmetics Regulation as an authorized UV filter with a maximum concentration limit of 10% in finished cosmetic products.
This SCCS opinion provides updated scientific evaluation based on recent toxicological data and exposure assessments, particularly focusing on dermal absorption, systemic exposure, and potential hormonal effects.
Main conclusions
The SCCS has noted that the available evidence shows that EHMC is an endocrine-active substance due to estrogenic activity and weak anti-androgenic activity both in vitro and in vivo.
- Dermal absorption rate confirmed at 1-2% under normal use conditions for sunscreen products
- Maximum systemic exposure calculated based on whole-body application scenarios and repeated use patterns
- Endocrine activity evaluation conducted using current OECD test guidelines and EU assessment criteria
- Photostability assessment confirming UV filter efficacy and breakdown product identification
- Reproductive toxicity data reviewed from available animal studies and in vitro screening assays
- Exposure scenarios updated to reflect current consumer use patterns and product formulation trends
Having considered the data provided, and the concerns relating to potential endocrine disrupting properties of EHMC, the SCCS is of the opinion that EHMC is safe when used as a UV filter up to a maximum concentration of 10% in sunscreen lotion, face and hand cream, lipstick, sunscreen propellant spray and pump spray, when used separately or in combination.
The SCCS is of the opinion that these products are also safe for children due to the high Margin of Safety.