![[Logo Cosmedesk]](/media/ljbbhnk4/logo-cosmedesk.svg){kind=logo}
The role of the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) in cosmetic safety
From personal care to beauty products, cosmetic products play an essential role in our daily life and ensuring their safety is of utmost importance. This is where the European Union (EU)’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) steps in.
What is the SCCS?
The SCCS is a scientific committee that provides expert advice to the European Commission on health and safety risks related to non-food consumer products, particularly cosmetics.
What are the key responsibilities of the SCCS?
The SCCS works to ensure that cosmetic products remain safe for consumer use. By conducting thorough assessments and issuing evidence-based opinions, the committee helps shape the regulatory landscape for cosmetics in the EU. Below are some of its primary responsibilities:
-
Ingredient risk assessment: The SCCS evaluates the safety of cosmetic ingredients, especially those with potential health concerns such as allergens, endocrine disruptors, or carcinogens. If an ingredient raises safety issues, the SCCS recommends restrictions on its use or, in some cases, a complete prohibition of use.
-
Providing scientific opinions: Based on rigorous scientific research and data analysis, the SCCS issues opinions on the safety of ingredients used in cosmetics. These opinions guide policymakers and regulatory bodies in updating the regulations.
-
Monitoring emerging risks: As science evolves and new data become available, the SCCS continuously monitors and reassesses potential risks associated with cosmetic ingredients, ensuring regulations remain up to date with scientific advancements.
What is the impact on the industry?
The SCCS plays a vital role in protecting consumer health by assessing the safety of cosmetic ingredients and advising regulatory authorities. Through its scientific expertise and risk assessments, the SCCS helps maintain high safety standards, ensuring that cosmetics used daily by millions of Europeans are safe and effective. As science continues to evolve, the Committee’s work remains indispensable in shaping the future of cosmetic safety.
References:
Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 of 30 November 2009 on cosmetic products
European Commission. Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS)
SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety), SCCS Notes of Guidance for the Testing of Cosmetic Ingredients and their Safety Evaluation 12th revision, 15 May 2023, SCCS/1647/22