The EU bans Lilial, a dangerous fragrance present in cosmetics
Its name is not well known to the general public, but Lilial is a very common fragrance in some cosmetics. The OCU now warns that from March 1, 2022, cosmetics containing Lilial, also called buthylphenyl methylpropional, can no longer be sold in the European Union. It is an allergenic fragrance that has become part of the group of CMR substances, which includes all those that have been classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction.
CMR substances are those that have been classified as carcinogenic (C), mutagenic (M) or toxic to reproduction (R). Generally, the use of this type of substance is prohibited in Europe, except in exceptional cases. Lilial is among these substances. The Consumer Safety Committee of the European Commission had previously concluded that the use of Lilial in cosmetics is not considered safe and the result is this ban.
Lilial is the trade name of one of the 26 fragrances that have been identified as allergens. From a certain concentration, its presence in the list of ingredients must be mentioned on the packaging.
Until a few years ago it was one of the most popular allergens and was found in many cosmetic fragrances, although in recent times things have changed: following the latest information on its toxicity, Lilial or buthylphenyl methylpropional has increasingly disappeared. using less in cosmetics. Furthermore, before it was banned, its use had been restricted: in the EU until now it was allowed only in reduced concentrations that varied depending on whether the product requires rinsing or remains on the skin.
The OCU alerts consumers that they have to pay attention to the fine print of the products and, for safety, recommends not using cosmetics that contain Lilial, especially in the case of pregnant women, small children or creams that are used daily and not require rinsing with water.