On October 15, 2026, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) of the European Union issued final opinion (SCCS/1688/26) on the safety of Heliotropin used in cosmetic products (CAS No. 120-57-0, EC No. 204-409-7). Compared with the preliminary opinion issued by SCCS on April 15, 2026, the final opinion issued this time has been updated, and the updated content is marked in red below.
Final Opinion on Heliotropin
Based on the assessment of data provided and taking into consideration the concerns related to the possible classification as ‘Repr.1B’ under Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (CLP Regulation), the SCCS considers Heliotropin safe when used up to the maximum concentration of 1.8% only in fine fragrances for adults.
This SCCS assessment only covers the use of heliotropin in fine fragrances for adults as mandated. However, the SCCS noted that the Applicant provided MoS calculations for other cosmetic products (including for children) suggesting that their (aggregated) use would be within the margin of safety.
The SCCS also noticed that some non-nicotine liquids for e-cigarettes may contain Heliotropin, which depending on national legislation may be covered under different regulatory frameworks. The Applicant provided MoS calculations for tobacco products and e-cigarettes, suggesting that the aggregated exposure with cosmetic products would be within the margin of safety.
Assessment Background
Heliotropin (CAS No. 120-57-0, EC No. 204-409-7), also known as piperonal, is an aromatic compound commonly used in cosmetic products for its sweet, floral scent. Naturally found in some essential oils but mostly produced synthetically, Heliotropin is a popular fragrance ingredient in perfumes, lotions, creams, shampoos, and deodorants. In addition, Heliotropin can function as a fixative, helping to stabilize and prolong other scents in a formulation, as well as a masking agent, softening the odour of other ingredients to enhance overall product appeal.
In September 2024, ECHA's RAC recommended classifying Heliotropin as Reprotoxic Category 1B (H360Fd), which could lead to its inclusion in CLP Annex VI. Under Article 15(2) of the Cosmetics Regulation, CMR 1A/1B substances are prohibited in cosmetics unless specific exemption conditions are met. In June 2025, the European Commission has accordingly requested the SCCS to conduct a safety assessment.
Interpretation of Heliotropin
The Global Cosmetic Ingredient Regulatory Database-Global CosIng, independently developed by CIRS Group indicates that Heliotropin (CAS No. 120-57-0) is included in the following lists globally. In China，Heliotropin has been included in the Inventory of Existing Cosmetic Ingredients in China I (IECIC I).
For more detailed information about Global CosIng or if you need any assistance or have any questions, please get in touch with us via service@cirs-group.com.
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Further Information:
SCCS/1688/26
