Shellac
A cosmetic ingredient used as binding, film forming, hair fixing in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Shellac. A resin secreted by Laccifer lacca, Coccidae
What does it do?
Shellac is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Binding
holds the components of a formulation together, especially in pressed powders and compact makeup
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Film forming
forms a thin continuous film on skin, hair, or nails — used in long-wear makeup, sunscreens, and hairsprays
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Hair fixing
holds hair in a desired style, typically through a flexible film coating each strand
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Skin conditioning - emollient
softens the skin by reducing roughness and friction between skin cells
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Viscosity controlling
adjusts the thickness or flow of a formulation
EU regulatory status
Shellac 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 Shellac?
Shellac is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Shellac. A resin secreted by Laccifer lacca, Coccidae
Is Shellac allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Shellac is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Shellac do in cosmetic products?
Shellac is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: binding, film forming, hair fixing, skin conditioning - emollient, viscosity controlling.
What is the CAS number of Shellac?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Shellac is 9000-59-3.
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