Loading…
Quick answer: Coal tar carries the heavier risk profile. Carbon black is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US; Coal tar is banned in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Carbon black | Coal tar |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Restricted | Banned |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | medium | high |
| Banned in | — | European Union |
| Restricted in | European Union | — |
| Category | cmr | cmr |
| Where it hides | mascara, eyeliner, black makeup | anti-dandruff shampoo, hair dye, psoriasis products |
Carbon black (Carbon Black) is a black pigment.
Coal tar is a complex byproduct of coal processing used in dandruff and psoriasis products and dyes.
Carbon black: A possible carcinogen; the EU restricts purity and nanoform use.
Coal tar: A known human carcinogen. Restricted in the EU (banned in hair dye); permitted in US OTC products.
Scan a barcode and we'll flag both Carbon black and Coal tar (plus 140+ other ingredients banned overseas).
Scan free →