OPSS Seeks Input on Potentially Harmful Cosmetic Ingredients
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) is calling on various stakeholders, including academics, cosmetic manufacturers, and consumer advocates, to provide scientific data regarding the safety of certain cosmetic ingredients. This initiative aims to assess the safety of these chemicals amid concerns about their possible endocrine-disrupting effects.
Safety Assessment of Cosmetic Ingredients
The OPSS is particularly focused on evaluating the impacts of specific ingredients that may pose risks, especially to vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women. Contributors are encouraged to submit relevant data that reflects both safety assessments and exposure estimates for these populations.
Scientific Guidelines for Submission
All data provided for evaluation must comply with established guidelines set forth by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety. Submissions should include complete original study reports, with an emphasis on pivotal studies that indicate the ‘No Observed Adverse Effect Level’ (NOAEL) and dermal absorption rates. The OPSS will subject all submissions to meticulous scientific review.
Default Bodyweight Considerations
In compliance with the latest safety assessments, the Scientific Advisory Group on Chemical Safety (SAG-CS) has designated a default bodyweight of 70 kg for adult evaluations. This standard aligns with practices recommended across various UK health sectors.
Submission Guidelines and Confidentiality
Interested parties should email their data to opss.safetyassessment@businessandtrade.gov.uk. However, contributors are reminded that data may be subject to the Freedom of Information Act of 2000. Any confidential or commercially-sensitive data must be distinctly marked, as unlabelled information could be liable for release under public requests.
List of Investigated Chemicals
The OPSS has highlighted several specific chemicals for review, which include:
- Benzophenone-1 (CAS 131-56-6)
- Benzophenone-2 (CAS 131-55-5)
- Benzophenone-4 (CAS 4065-45-6)
- Benzophenone-5 (CAS 6628-37-1)
- Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (CAS 5466-77-3/83834-59-7)
- Triphenyl phosphate (CAS 115-86-6)
- Butylated hydroxyanisole (CAS 25013-16-5)
The deadline for submissions is set for 30 June 2026, allowing ample time for the gathering of relevant data.
Data Protection Commitment
OPSS affirms its dedication to complying with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. Any personal data collected will be securely maintained and utilised solely for administrative purposes.
Background
The growing scrutiny surrounding the safety of cosmetic ingredients has gained momentum in recent years, driven by increasing public awareness of health issues linked to chemical exposure. This marks a significant step in the UK’s ongoing effort to safeguard consumer health and well-being.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/call-for-data-safety-of-cosmetic-ingredients
