BACKGROUND
Butylated Hydroxytoluene or BHT (CAS No. 128-37-0) is a synthetic antioxidant which may be added to cosmetic products to improve their stability and prevent oxidation. Typical use concentrations of BHT across a wide spectrum of cosmetic product types, dermally applied, and spray products are 0.0002 – 0.8%. Oral products typically use a lower concentration of 0.1% in toothpaste and 0.001% in mouthwashes.
WHAT’S NEW?
On April 1, 2024, the UK published a statutory instrument on Consumer Protection – 2024 No. 455 – The Cosmetic Products (Restriction of Chemical Substances) Regulations 2024, adding BHT to the list of restricted substances under Annex III to the UK Cosmetics Regulation.
Following the scientific opinion of the UK’s Scientific Advisory Group on Chemical Safety of Non-Food and Non-Medicinal Consumer Products (SAG-CS), the new regulation established the following maximum concentrations:
- Toothpaste: 0.1%
- Mouthwash: 0.001%
- Leave-on oral care products: 0.001%
- Other leave-on and rinse-off products: 0.8%
Note: EU and UK are not totally aligned reagrding restrictions on BHT. In the UK, BHT can be used up to a maximum concentration in leave-on oral care products of 0.001%. On the other hand, in the EU, this limit is of 0.8%.
WHAT NOW?
The Cosmetic Products (Restriction of Chemical Substances) Regulations 2024 provides for a transition period to allow the cosmetics indutrsy to adjust to the new requirements.
From February 24, 2025, cosmetic products cannot be placed on the UK market if they do not meet the updated restrictions. Cosmetic products already on the UK market can remain on shelves and be sold until June 24, 2025.
References:
The Cosmetic Products (Restriction of Chemical Substances) Regulations 2024
