Opinion of the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) – Revision of the Opinion on hydroxyapatite (nano) in cosmetic products

Abstract

In response to the concerns of the European Commission about potential absorption and entry of nanoparticles of hydroxyapatite into the cells when used in oral cosmetic products, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) was requested to provide a safety assessment of hydroxyapatite (nano). After making a detailed evaluation of the data provided in the submissions and scientific literature, the SCCS considered needle-shaped hydroxyapatite (nano) to be of concern due to its potential toxic effects, and stated that it should not be used in cosmetic products. In terms of other shapes of hydroxyapatite (nano), the available evidence was insufficient to allow drawing a conclusion on the safety of hydroxyapatite (nano) when used in oral cosmetic products up to a concentration of 10%.