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Quick answer: Salicylic acid (high dose) carries the heavier risk profile. Retinyl palmitate is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US; Salicylic acid (high dose) is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Retinyl palmitate | Salicylic acid (high dose) |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Restricted | Restricted |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | medium | low |
| Banned in | — | — |
| Restricted in | European Union | European Union |
| Category | endocrine disruptor | endocrine disruptor |
| Where it hides | anti-aging cream, sunscreen, lotion | acne treatment, exfoliant, shampoo |
Retinyl palmitate is a vitamin A ester used in anti-aging skincare and sunscreen.
Salicylic acid (high dose) (Salicylic Acid) is a beta-hydroxy acid exfoliant.
Retinyl palmitate: The EU caps vitamin A levels over concerns it may accelerate skin damage in sunlight; the US does not restrict it.
Salicylic acid (high dose): Flagged as an endocrine disruptor; the EU restricts concentration and bans it in products for children under 3.
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