On May 4, 2026, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) of the European Union issued preliminary opinion (SCCS/1689/26) open for comments regarding the safety of Acetophenone (CAS No. 98-86-2). The deadline for submitting comments is set for July 6, 2026.
Preliminary Opinion on Acetophenone
In light of the data provided and taking into consideration the possible classification as ‘Repr.1B’ under Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (CLP Regulation), the SCCS considers Acetophenone safe when present up to a maximum concentration of 100 ppm (0.01%) in cosmetic products, taking also into account sources of exposure other than cosmetics (food, tobacco smoking).
Natural complex substances (NCS) as such were not assessed, so the conclusion on safety only relates to Acetophenone as part of NCS, and not to NCS as such.
Assessment Background
In March 2025, the European Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) of ECHA issued an opinion recommending classification of Acetophenone as 'Reprotoxic Category 1B (H360FD)'. Under Article 15(2) of the Cosmetics Regulation, CMR 1A/1B substances are prohibited in cosmetic products. In view of this, regulatory measures must be adopted by the Commission services of the classification as CMR 1A or 1B of the substance(s) concerned in Part 3 of Annex VI to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008.
In September 2025, the European Commission requested SCCS to conduct a safety assessment on Acetophenone in view of the potential classification.
Interpretation of Acetophenone
Acetophenone (CAS No. 98-86-2, EC No. 202-708-7), is an aromatic compound commonly used in cosmetics primarily as a perfuming agent, valued for its sweet and floral scent. It occurs naturally in various plant extracts (also called ‘NCS’ for Natural Complex Substances), such as essential oils,concretes, absolutes, gums and resinoids. In addition, Acetophenone is also listed as a food additive in Implementing Regulation (EU) No 872/2012.
The Global Cosmetic Ingredient Regulatory Database-Global CosIng, independently developed by CIRS Group indicates that Acetophenone (CAS No. 98-86-2) is included in the following key lists globally.
For more detailed information about Global CosIng or if you need any assistance or have any questions, please get in touch with us via cosmetic@cirs-group.com.
Our Services
- EU Cosmetic Product Formula and Label Review
- EU Cosmetic Responsible Person
- Product Information File (PIF)
- EU Cosmetic Safety Assessment (CPSR)
Further Information:
SCCS- Preliminary Opinion-Acetophenone
