Is Benzophenone Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Benzophenone is restricted in the EU but allowed in the US (carcinogens, mutagens & reproductive toxicants).
INCI name Benzophenone. CAS 119-61-9.
Is Benzophenone banned in the EU?
| EU status | Restricted |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | high |
| Where it shows up | lip balm, sunscreen, nail polish |
| CAS number | 119-61-9 |
What is Benzophenone?
Benzophenone (Benzophenone) is a UV stabilizer and photoinitiator.
Why is Benzophenone used in personal-care products?
It is used for its preservative, coloring, fragrance, solvent or texture-enhancing function.
Is Benzophenone dangerous? Documented risks
A possible carcinogen and endocrine disruptor; the EU restricts it.
Products that may contain Benzophenone
How to avoid Benzophenone: safer alternatives
Choose EU-compliant or 'free-from' formulations and read the INCI list. BannedPantry flags this ingredient and suggests safer swaps.
Frequently asked questions about Benzophenone
Is Benzophenone banned in the EU?
Benzophenone is restricted under the EU Cosmetics Regulation (1223/2009), but it is allowed in US personal-care products.
Is Benzophenone in US cosmetics?
Yes — Benzophenone can still appear in US-sold cosmetics and personal-care products because US rules are far less restrictive than the EU's.
What products contain Benzophenone?
Read the INCI ingredient list on the back of the package. Scan the barcode with BannedPantry to flag Benzophenone automatically.
Are there safer alternatives to Benzophenone?
Yes. Look for EU-compliant or 'free-from' formulations; BannedPantry suggests safer swaps when it detects Benzophenone.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Benzophenone or other ingredients banned overseas.
Scan a product free →Related carcinogens, mutagens & reproductive toxicants
Avoiding banned beauty ingredients? Check your food, too.
Sources
- EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II (prohibited substances) — EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009
- EU-banned cosmetics ingredients and US impact — RegASK
- Chemicals in cosmetics — CHEM Trust
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.