Allowed in EU · Annex V

Thimerosal

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

What is it?

Mercurate(1-), ethyl[2-mercaptobenzoato(2-)-O, S]-, sodium

What does it do?

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

  • Preservative

    prevents microbial growth in cosmetic products, extending shelf life and protecting users

EU regulatory status

Thimerosal is listed in Annex V of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 as a substance permitted for the corresponding category of use.

Frequently asked questions

What is Thimerosal?

Thimerosal is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Mercurate(1-), ethyl[2-mercaptobenzoato(2-)-O, S]-, sodium

Is Thimerosal allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

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

What does Thimerosal do in cosmetic products?

Thimerosal is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: preservative.

What is the CAS number of Thimerosal?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Thimerosal is 54-64-8.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 10/08/2020