Beauty · Carcinogens, mutagens & reproductive toxicants

Is Diethyl sulfate Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides

TL;DR: Diethyl sulfate is banned in the EU but allowed in the US (carcinogens, mutagens & reproductive toxicants).

INCI name Diethyl Sulfate. CAS 64-67-5.

Is Diethyl sulfate banned in the EU?

Diethyl sulfate (Diethyl Sulfate) is an alkylating agent.

It is used for its preservative, coloring, fragrance, solvent or texture-enhancing function.

A known carcinogen; banned in EU cosmetics.

Choose EU-compliant or 'free-from' formulations and read the INCI list. BannedPantry flags this ingredient and suggests safer swaps.

Is Diethyl sulfate banned in the EU?

Diethyl sulfate is banned under the EU Cosmetics Regulation (1223/2009), but it is allowed in US personal-care products.

Is Diethyl sulfate in US cosmetics?

Yes — Diethyl sulfate 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 Diethyl sulfate?

Read the INCI ingredient list on the back of the package. Scan the barcode with BannedPantry to flag Diethyl sulfate automatically.

Are there safer alternatives to Diethyl sulfate?

Yes. Look for EU-compliant or 'free-from' formulations; BannedPantry suggests safer swaps when it detects Diethyl sulfate.

Is Diethyl sulfate in your bathroom cabinet?

Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Diethyl sulfate or other ingredients banned overseas.

Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.