Allowed in EU

Mel

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

What is it?

Naturally occurring substances, honey, a saccharic secretion gathered and stored by honey bees

What does it do?

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

  • Humectant

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

  • Moisturising

    increases the water content of skin or hair, leaving it softer and more pliable

  • Skin conditioning - emollient

    softens the skin by reducing roughness and friction between skin cells

EU regulatory status

Mel 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 Mel?

Mel is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Naturally occurring substances, honey, a saccharic secretion gathered and stored by honey bees

Is Mel allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

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

What does Mel do in cosmetic products?

Mel is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: humectant, moisturising, skin conditioning - emollient.

What is the CAS number of Mel?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Mel 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: 15/10/2010