Original source
Scientific Advice on Silver used in cosmetic products (CAS/EC No. 7440-22-4/231-131-3)
- Official date
- 2026-04-24
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**Instrument:** SCCS Scientific Advice (Opinion SCCS/1687/25)**Scope:** Micron-sized particulate silver (100 nm < particle diameter < 1 mm) in cosmetic products under Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009.**Key conclusions:**– Safe at 0.2% in rinse-off and oral hygiene products, 0.3% in leave-on and nail products.– For children, same concentrations except mouthwash at 0.05%.– Not assessed for propellant-based sprays.**Dates:** Adopted 26 March 2026; corrigendum adopted 20 May 2026; publication date 24 April 2026.
The SCCS has issued a final opinion on the safety of micron-sized particulate silver in cosmetics, concluding it is safe at specified concentrations for various product types, with a lower limit for mouthwash intended for children. The opinion does not cover propellant-based sprays, so those uses remain unassessed. This may affect formulation and labeling decisions for products containing silver.
Official text
English translation — the official-language text prevails
In the light of the new data provided, indicating that micron-sized particulate Silver does not penetrate the skin, the SCCS considers micron-sized particulate Silver [100nm<particle diameter<1 mm] safe when used up to a maximum concentration of 0.2% in rinse-off and 0.3% in leave-on cosmetic products. It is also considered safe when used up to 0.2% in oral hygiene products and up to 0.3% in nail products. For cosmetic products intended for children use, micron-sized particulate Silver is also considered safe at the same concentrations, except in mouthwash that is considered safe at a concentration up to 0.05%. This Opinion does not apply to the use of micron-sized particulate Silver [100nm<particle diameter<1 mm] in propellant-based spray products because such applications were not covered by the Applicant, and therefore not assessed for safety by the SCCS.