France confirms alert on Glyoxylic Acid

The French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES) recently confirmed the alert concerning cosmetics containing Glyoxylic Acid announced in October 2024. Published on 23 January 2025, the French authority announced that this confirmation represents a step towards a regulatory restriction of the ingredient.

Toxicity of Glyoxylic Acid assessed by French authority

According to ANSES, Glyoxylic Acid can cause acute kidney failure following an independent review of the available scientific data on its toxicity. This ingredient is often used in hair straightening products, particularly in so-called “Brazilian” straightening. After analysing the available scientific data, the French authority confirms that Glyoxylic Acid is very likely responsible for cases of acute kidney failure.

The ANSES considers it necessary to impose restrictions or even a ban on the use of this substance in hair care products. While awaiting regulatory measures, the French authority recommends avoiding hair straightening products containing Glyoxylic Acid. It also urges manufacturers to reassess the safety of hair care products that contain this substance. In addition, ANSES also suggests expanding this evaluation to include various ingredient derivatives used in hair straightening products.

Currently, there are no restrictions or bans for this substance in cosmetic products. France strongly encourages both consumers and professionals to report any observed adverse effects to the cosmetovigilance system.

However, the cosmetics industry should be prepared for potential implications of the French alert, including possible EU-wide restrictions or even a ban on Glyoxylic Acid. We recommend closely monitoring whether the SCCS is mandated to conduct a toxicological assessment and when the European Commission plans to issue a call for data.

Subscribe to COSlaw in order to be up-to-date about all bans and restrictions. It is free!

Do you have questions on formulas compliance? Contact us here or write to coslaw@obelis.net.

References:

ANSES (2025). Produits lissants pour cheveux : l’alerte sur l’acide glyoxylique est confirmée. Retrieved on 30/01/2025.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Share This

Copy Link to Clipboard

Copy