SAG-CS Opinion on Hexyl Salicylate

On 13 November 2025, the Scientific Advisory Group on Consumer Safety (SAG-CS) published its opinion on hexyl salicylate.  This review is the consequence of the ingredient’s proposed classification as a CMR2 (reprotox) under the GB Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) Regulation; industry is defending the continued use of this ingredient as per Article 15 of the UK Cosmetics Regulation.

In this opinion, SAG-CS concluded that hexyl salicylate is safe for use in cosmetic products for adults and children aged 3 years old and above at the below concentrations: 

• hydroalcoholic-based fragrances (spray and non-spray) at 2%;
• rinse off products at 0.5%;
• leave on products at 0.3%;
• oral care products at 0.001%.

SAG-CS also concluded that hexyl salicylate is safe for use in cosmetic products intended for use by children aged 0-3 at the below concentrations:

• shower gel, hand soap, shampoo, hair conditioner, body lotion, face cream, hand cream, lipstick/lip balm, fragrance products at 0.1%;
• toothpaste at 0.001%.

Data for children aged 3 years of age and above were limited, and SAG-CS recommended that a full risk assessment should be conducted when an adequate methodology and data become available, in order to fully assess the use of hexyl salicylate in products intended for children.