The UK has set new maximum concentrations for hexyl salicylate in cosmetic products, a move that marks a divergence from European Union regulations. The Scientific Advisory Group on Chemical Safety in Consumer Products (SAG-CS) has agreed on limits for adult and child use. For adults and children over three, hydroalcoholic fragrances can contain up to 2% hexyl salicylate, rinse-off products 0.5%, leave-on products 0.3%, and oral care 0.001%.
For infants aged 0-3, the acceptable limits are lower: 0.1% in shower gels, soaps, shampoos, conditioners, lotions, creams, lipsticks, lip balms, and fragrances. Toothpaste for this age group can contain 0.001%. These conclusions rely on data from a Cosmetics Europe baby study using P95 aggregate exposures. Products currently on the market containing hexyl salicylate have until 14 February 2027 to be sold off, with new regulations taking effect from 15 August 2026.
This regulatory divergence is most apparent in oral care products. While the UK permits hexyl salicylate in both children's toothpastes and mouthwashes under three, the EU allows it only in toothpastes for that age group. The EU also mandates a specific warning for mouthwashes containing hexyl salicylate, which is absent in the UK's updated rules. Businesses must also be aware of additional substances now banned or restricted in cosmetics, with a sell-off period for non-compliant products until 22 September 2027, following the ban date of 23 March 2027.
