On 4 May 2026, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) published the mandate submitted by the European Commission requesting an assessment of the safety of Glyoxylic Acid in cosmetic products.
Glyoxylic Acid (CAS No. 298‑12‑4) is commonly used in hair care products, in particular for hair straightening and smoothing treatments. Its use has also been reported in depilatory and hair removal products.
Increasing regulatory scrutiny
Under certain conditions, Glyoxylic Acid may release formaldehyde, which has triggered regulatory scrutiny in several jurisdictions.
In October 2024, the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES) issued an alert concerning cosmetic products containing Glyoxylic Acid. Within the framework of national cosmetovigilance activities, ANSES reported four cases of acute kidney failure associated with the use of products containing this ingredient.
Scope of the SCCS assessment
The SCCS has been mandated to assess whether Glyoxylic Acid is safe when used in hair straightening products at concentrations of up to 16%, or whether an alternative maximum concentration should be considered. Additionally, the European Commission required the Committee to evaluate whether there are any additional scientific concerns related to the use of Glyoxylic Acid in cosmetic products.
Deadline for data submission
Stakeholders have 12 months to submit scientific data to support or challenge the assessment. The deadline for submitting dossiers to the SCCS is 5 May 2027.
References
SCCS. (2026). Request for a scientific Opinion on the safety of Glyoxylic Acid when used in cosmetic products. Retrieved on 4 May 2026.
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