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Quick answer: Coal tar carries the heavier risk profile. Coal tar is banned in the EU and allowed in the US; Retinyl palmitate is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Coal tar | Retinyl palmitate |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Banned | Restricted |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | high | medium |
| Banned in | European Union | — |
| Restricted in | — | European Union |
| Category | cmr | endocrine disruptor |
| Where it hides | anti-dandruff shampoo, hair dye, psoriasis products | anti-aging cream, sunscreen, lotion |
Coal tar is a complex byproduct of coal processing used in dandruff and psoriasis products and dyes.
Retinyl palmitate is a vitamin A ester used in anti-aging skincare and sunscreen.
Coal tar: A known human carcinogen. Restricted in the EU (banned in hair dye); permitted in US OTC products.
Retinyl palmitate: The EU caps vitamin A levels over concerns it may accelerate skin damage in sunlight; the US does not restrict it.
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