Allowed in EU

Honey

A cosmetic ingredient used as flavouring, humectant, skin conditioning in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.

What is it?

Mel (EU)

What does it do?

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

  • Flavouring

    adds taste to oral-care products like toothpaste and mouthwash

  • Humectant

    draws moisture from the air or deeper skin layers to the surface, helping skin retain water

  • Skin conditioning

    improves the appearance, feel, and condition of skin

EU regulatory status

Honey 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 Honey?

Honey is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Mel (EU)

Is Honey allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

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

What does Honey do in cosmetic products?

Honey is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: flavouring, humectant, skin conditioning.

What is the CAS number of Honey?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Honey is 8028-66-8.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/07/2015