SCCS Opinion on Benzophenone-1 on Safety Concerns and Genotoxicity in Cosmetic Products

On April 1, 2025, the SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety) issued its opinion on Benzophenone-1 (CAS No. 131-56-6), assessing its safety as a light stabilizer in cosmetic products. The SCCS concluded that Benzophenone-1 is not safe for use in cosmetic products due to concerns over its genotoxicity and endocrine-disrupting properties. This document consists of information regarding the chemical and physical specifications, toxicokinetics, exposure assessment, toxicological evaluation, safety evaluation, and conclusion on Benzophenone-1, with the SCCS determining it unsafe for use in cosmetic products due to its genotoxicity and endocrine-disrupting properties.

Key findings include:
-Genotoxicity Potential: The available data indicate that Benzophenone-1 has genotoxicity potential.
-Endocrine-Disrupting Properties: The evidence assessed by the SCCS demonstrates that Benzophenone-1 exhibits endocrine-active properties, including estrogenic activity and weak anti-androgenic activity both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, it shows potential activity against thyroid modality in vitro.
-The SCCS also noted that a new 2023 OECD TG 422 study, relating to endocrine-disrupting effects and submitted to ECHA as part of the REACH registration dossier, has not been assessed at this stage due to the ongoing concerns about the substance's genotoxicity. The SCCS will consider this study if new evidence is provided that excludes genotoxicity concerns.