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Limits for tea tree oil
EU provides clarity for cosmetics formulators and brands
The EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has confirmed limits for the use of tea tree oil in four categories of cosmetics for adults. According to this, tea tree oil can be used as an ingredient in concentrations of up to two per cent in shampoos, one per cent in shower gels and facial cleansers, and 0.1 per cent in face creams, provided it is used in a non-aerosolised form for adults to avoid inhalation. The EU committee reiterates that tea tree oil is a moderately irritating agent and points to the lack of stability data. The oil, which is intended to combat excessive sebum production in the skin, is susceptible to degradation by light, heat, air and moisture. The committee's opinion is intended to provide clarity for formulators and brands that use tea tree oil and to set concentration limits. Further information ...
