Key takeaways on SCCS use of Butylated Hydroxyanisole in cosmetics formulations
- The EU’s SCCS has issued a preliminary opinion on Butylated Hydroxyanisole safety in cosmetics.
- The ingredient is widely used as an antioxidant in oil-based formulations.
- Concerns include potential carcinogenicity, endocrine disruption, and skin irritation.
- SCCS deems Butylated Hydroxyanisole safe at concentrations up to 0.07% for dermal use.
- Brands may need to reformulate if higher levels or aerosol formats are required.
Following the recent European Union (EU) regulatory update on the use of tea tree oil in cosmetic formulations, the EU’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has now issued a preliminary opinion (SCCS/1682/25) on Butylated Hydroxyanisole and set the deadline for comments as 19 January 2026.
Why is Butylated Hydroxyanisole used in cosmetic formulations
Butylated Hydroxyanisole is primarily used as an antioxidant to prevent product spoilage and maintain stability. The ingredient is typically found in lipsticks and balms to prevent oils from becoming rancid; moisturisers and creams with a high oil content; colour cosmetics with oils such as foundations; hair products like conditioners or treatments with fatty components; and sunscreens to stabilise UV filters and oils. The ingredient is less common in water-based products as its antioxidant function is most effective in oil.
Safety concerns driving the SCCS review
Previous scientific research has raised concerns that Butylated Hydroxyanisole could be a potential carcinogen, as animal studies have shown that high doses of the chemical can cause tumour formation in the forestomach of rodents. While this doesn’t directly translate to humans, it raises concern for long-term exposure.
There are also concerns about endocrine disruption, as some evidence suggests the ingredient may interfere with hormonal activity, although the data is limited and not conclusive.
At higher concentrations, Butylated Hydroxyanisole can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. There are also environmental concerns, as the ingredient is persistent in the environment, which could lead to ecological issues. However, the SCCS mandate has focused only on human safety and doesn’t address environmental aspects.
The SCCS considers the use of Butylated Hydroxyanisole in leave-on and rinse-off cosmetic products up to a concentration of 0.07% as safe. It has considered only dermal use and hence, this is applicable for the use of BHA in dermally applied products, and not in oral care products or cosmetic products that may lead to exposure of the end-user’s lungs by inhalation.
Beauty companies that formulate with Butylated Hydroxyanisole may need to reformulate and consider alternative antioxidants if higher concentrations or aerosol formats are required when the SCCS final opinion is given after the comment period ends.
