SCCS publishes Final Opinion on UV filter Benzophenone-1 (SCCS/1672/24)

Ingredient: Benzophenone-1

Date of publication: 01/04/2025

The SCCS concluded that Benzophenone-1 is not safe when used as a light stabilizer in cosmetic products due to genotoxicity potential and endocrine disrupting properties.

What’s new?

On 27 March 2025, the SCCS adopted a final opinion on Benzophenone-1, following public consultation initiated in November 2024. The assessment considered new mutagenicity/genotoxicity studies submitted to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) as part of the REACH registration dossier in 2023.

Benzophenone-1 is used as a light stabilizer and UV filter in cosmetic products. The assessment focused on use up to maximum concentration of 2% considering concerns related to endocrine disrupting properties and genotoxicity potential.

Main conclusions

Not safe when used as light stabilizer in cosmetic products
Data indicate genotoxicity potential
Endocrine-active substance confirmed (clear estrogenic activity in vitro and in vivo)

What now?

Expected timeline for regulatory implementation:

Final opinion published
Amendment to Annex II of EU Cosmetics Regulation expected in 6-12 months
Transition periods typically 18-24 months for compliance

References

SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety), Opinion on Benzophenone-1 (CAS No. 131-56-6, EC No. 205-029-4), preliminary version of 25 October 2024, final version of 27 March 2025, SCCS/1672/24

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