SCCS Issued a Preliminary Opinion on Methyl Salicylate (methyl 2-hydroxybenzoate)

On May 16, 2023, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) issued a preliminary opinion on methyl salicylate (CAS No.119-36-8) to assess the safety of the use of methyl salicylate in cosmetics. The deadline for public consultation is June 19, 2023.

In the SCCS/1633/21 Opinion, the Committee concluded that Methyl Salicylate in toothpaste is safe for children under 6 years of age when used up to the maximum concentration of 2.52%.

1. In light of the data provided and taking under consideration the conclusions of SCCS/1633/21 and the aggregate exposure, does the SCCS consider Methyl Salicylate safe for children of age 0-3, when used up to a maximum concentration of 0.02% in all of the currently regulated cosmetic products included in Table 1 (except toothpaste in which up to 2.52% can be used)?

In view of the conclusions of SCCS/1633/21 and the aggregate exposure, the SCCS considers the use of Methyl Salicylate as safe in cosmetic products intended for children of age 0.5-3 years when used up to a maximum concentration of 0.02% in shower gel, hand soap, shampoo, body lotion, face cream, hand cream, lip products. For toothpaste up to a maximum concentration of 2.52% methyl salicylate is considered safe. As no specific data were provided by the applicant for children below 6 months, the SCCS has not considered this age category in this safety assessment.

2. In light of the data provided and taking under consideration the conclusions of SCCS/1633/21 and the aggregate exposure, does the SCCS consider Methyl Salicylate safe for children of age 3-6, when used up to the allowed maximum concentrations for each of the currently regulated cosmetic products included in Table 1 (except toothpaste in which up to 2.52% can be used)?

In view of the conclusions of SCCS/1633/21 and the aggregate exposure, the SCCS considers the use of Methyl Salicylate as safe in cosmetic products intended for children of age 3-6 years in shower gel, hand soap, shampoo, body lotion, face cream, hand cream, lip products, hair conditioner up to the allowed maximum concentrations indicated in Table 1. For toothpaste up to a maximum concentration of 2.52% methyl salicylate is considered safe.

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