Beauty · Carcinogens, mutagens & reproductive toxicants

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

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

INCI name 1,1,1-Trichloroethane. CAS 71-55-6.

Is Trichloroethane banned in the EU?

Trichloroethane (1,1,1-Trichloroethane) is a chlorinated solvent.

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

Ozone-depleting and toxic; 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 Trichloroethane banned in the EU?

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

Is Trichloroethane in US cosmetics?

Yes — Trichloroethane 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 Trichloroethane?

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

Are there safer alternatives to Trichloroethane?

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

Is Trichloroethane in your bathroom cabinet?

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

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