Allowed in EU

Boric Acid

A cosmetic ingredient used as antimicrobial, buffering, denaturant in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.

What is it?

Boric acid

What does it do?

Boric Acid is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:

  • Antimicrobial

    kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms

  • Buffering

    stabilises the pH of a product

  • Denaturant

    makes ethanol in cosmetics unfit for drinking — required by regulation when alcohol is used

EU regulatory status

Boric Acid is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.

Frequently asked questions

What is Boric Acid?

Boric Acid is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Boric acid

Is Boric Acid allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

Yes. Boric Acid is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.

What does Boric Acid do in cosmetic products?

Boric Acid is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: antimicrobial, buffering, denaturant.

What is the CAS number of Boric Acid?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Boric Acid is 10043-35-3 / 11113-50-1.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 04/12/2019