International Standard for Addition Limit of Propylene Oxide in Cosmetics

Propylene oxide (Propylene) is an important industrial chemical that is widely used in the cosmetics industry. Due to the toxicity and potential carcinogenicity of propylene oxide, there are strict international regulations on the addition limit of propylene oxide in cosmetics. In this paper, the function, limit standard, detection method and compliance requirements of propylene oxide will be analyzed in detail.

What is propylene oxide?

Propylene oxide is a colorless, flammable liquid with a pungent odor. It is mainly used as a raw material for surfactants, emulsifiers and detergents in cosmetics. Propylene oxide can react with water to form polypropylene glycol (PPG), which is a common ingredient in cosmetics and is widely used in products such as shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and creams. Although propylene oxide plays an important role in the production of cosmetics, due to its potential health risks, countries have strict restrictions on its addition.

Limit Standard of Propylene Oxide in Cosmetics

the limit of propylene oxide varies according to national and regional regulations. The following are the main international standards:

1. European Union (European Union) standards

according to the European Union's International Cosmetic Regulation (EC)No 1223/2009, the use of propylene oxide needs to meet the requirements of the Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary (CosIng). EU restrictions on propylene oxide are mainly reflected in the limits of its derivatives (such as polypropylene glycol). For example, the amount of polypropylene glycol -2(PPG-2) used should not exceed 0.1%. The EU also requires a toxicological assessment of all products containing propylene oxide to ensure their safety and compliance.

2. United States (FDA) standards

in the United States, the use of propylene oxide is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). According to FDA regulations, the use of propylene oxide and its derivatives in cosmetics needs to meet the requirements of the Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook. Although the FDA does not directly stipulate the limit of propylene oxide, its derivatives (such as PPG) are usually allowed to be used in cosmetics, but they must be evaluated for safety and added in strict accordance with the specified use concentration.

3. Japanese (JICHEM) standard

the Japanese cosmetic industry follows the Japanese Hygienic Standards for Cosmetics (JICHEM). The use of propylene oxide and its derivatives in Japan must comply with the requirements of the Japanese Pharmacopoeia (JP). For example, the amount of polypropylene glycol added should not exceed 1%. Japan's regulation of cosmetic ingredients is very strict, requiring all products containing propylene oxide to pass toxicology tests.

4. China (GB) standard

in China, the use of propylene oxide is restricted by the Technical Code for Safety of Cosmetics (GB 7917.1-2009). According to this standard, the limit of propylene oxide and its derivatives in cosmetics is 1%(w/w). Cosmetic manufacturers in China must ensure that all ingredients used meet national standards and are certified by relevant testing agencies.

Significance of Limit Standard for Propylene Oxide

the limit of propylene oxide is to protect consumers from potential health risks. Since propylene oxide is a highly allergenic and carcinogenic chemical, excessive use may cause skin irritation or other health problems. Therefore, the use of propylene oxide is strictly restricted by national regulations to ensure the safety and efficacy of cosmetics.

How to ensure propylene oxide compliance?

In order to ensure compliance with propylene oxide, cosmetics manufacturers need to take the following measures:

1. choose a reliable supplier: Ensure that the sources of propylene oxide and its derivatives used meet international standards.
2. Strictly control the amount of addition: According to the regulatory requirements of the target market, accurately control the use concentration of propylene oxide.
3. To conduct a toxicological assessment: Toxicological testing of products containing propylene oxide to ensure their safety and compliance.
4. Regular inspection: Regular testing of products through third-party testing agencies to ensure that the propylene oxide content meets the standard.

Conclusion

the addition limit of propylene oxide in cosmetics is a global problem, and national regulations have strict regulations on it. By understanding and adhering to these standards, cosmetic manufacturers can ensure product safety and market compliance. In the future, with the advancement of science and technology and the continuous improvement of regulations, the use of propylene oxide will be more stringent, and the cosmetics industry will also develop in a safer and more environmentally friendly direction.