SCCS Safety Assessment of o-Phenylphenol as a Cosmetic Preservative: Maximum Safe Concentrations in Rinse-Off and Leave-On Products

The SCCS concludes the following:

1. In light of the data provided and taking under consideration the classification as ‘Carcinogen Cat. 2’, does the SCCS consider o-Phenylphenol safe when used as preservative up to a maximum concentration of 0.2 % in rinse-off and 0.15 % in leave on cosmetic products?

In light of the data provided, the SCCS considers o-Phenylphenol safe when used as preservative up to a maximum concentration of 0.2 % in rinse-off and 0.15 % in leave on cosmetic products. O-Phenylphenol and Sodium o-Phenylphenate, when used together, should not exceed the maximum concentration 0.15 % in leave-on cosmetic products.

O-Phenylphenol and Sodium o-Phenylphenate, when used together, should not exceed the maximum concentration 0.2 % in rinse-off cosmetic products.

2. Alternatively, what is according to the SCCS, the maximum concentration considered safe for use of o-Phenylphenol in cosmetic products?