Banned in EU

Styrene

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

What is it?

Ethenyl-benzene; Vinylbenzene; Phenylethylene; Styrol; Styrolene; Cinnamene

What does it do?

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

  • Solvent

    dissolves other ingredients into a uniform liquid phase

EU regulatory status

This ingredient is banned in the European Union.

Styrene is listed under Annex II of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 (entry 1575), making it prohibited in cosmetic products placed on the EU market.

Frequently asked questions

What is Styrene?

Styrene is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Ethenyl-benzene; Vinylbenzene; Phenylethylene; Styrol; Styrolene; Cinnamene

Is Styrene allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

No. Styrene is banned for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Annex II of Regulation 1223/2009.

What does Styrene do in cosmetic products?

Styrene is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: solvent.

What is the CAS number of Styrene?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Styrene is 100-42-5.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 30/07/2020