In December 2023. the SCCS finalised its evaluation of Silver Zinc Zeolite as a cosmetic preservative. Read about the SCCS opinion and implications for cosmetic manufacturers.
About Silver Zinc Zeolite
Silver Zinc Zeolite (CAS 130328-20- 0, EC 603-404-0), also known as Ammonium Silver Zinc Aluminium Silicate, functions as an absorbent, deodorant and preservative in cosmetics. As a preservative and antimicrobial ingredient, Silver Zinc Zeolite works by disrupting cell membranes and inhibiting enzymes of microorganisms.
Past Assessments
The SCCS was requested to provide an opinion on this ingredient after a number of assessments by different EU Commission expert committees going back to 2015. After one review in 2019, Silver Zinc Zeolite was added in entry 1597 of Annex II as a prohibited substance in cosmetic products. Another review by the Biocidal Products Committee raised concerns over human health impact on the environment. It is against this backdrop, the SCCS were asked to review Silver Zinc Zeolite as an ingredient for cosmetics.
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Call for Data
As per the process, interested parties submitted toxicological evidence on the safety of Silver Zinc Zeolite as a cosmetic ingredient. In response, the Commission tasked the SCCS with conducting a review of the toxicokinetics, exposure assessment, among other things, and comment.
SCCS Assessment of Silver Zinc Zeolite
In light of the data available, the SCCS considers that Silver Zinc Zeolite with a maximum silver content of 2.5% is safe in spray deodorant and powder foundation when used at a concentration of 1%.
Implications for manufactures
Manufacturers must ensure cosmetics on the market comply with EU cosmetic regulations including any update or change such as this SCCS opinion. This means that products that contain Silver Zinc Zeolite should be re-formulated in line with the recommendations and the PIF updated.
UK-only marketed products
We understand the UK regulator still recognises the SCCS opinion despite the UK not being part of the EU. However, we advise you speak to your assessor to find out how your product is affected by this update.
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Resources
Read the SCCS Opinion here
Entry in INCI database as ingredient and as substance
Cosmetic Safety Assessment Service (CPSR)
FAQ: Silver Zinc Zeolite as a Cosmetic Preservative
1. What is Silver Zinc Zeolite?
Silver Zinc Zeolite, also known as Ammonium Silver Zinc Aluminium Silicate, functions as an absorbent, deodorant, and preservative in cosmetics. It disrupts cell membranes and inhibits enzymes of microorganisms, acting as an antimicrobial agent.
2. What were the past assessments regarding Silver Zinc Zeolite?
Previous assessments by EU Commission expert committees dating back to 2015 led to the classification of Silver Zinc Zeolite as a prohibited substance in cosmetic products (Annex II, entry 1597). Concerns were raised regarding its human health impact on the environment.
3. What was the recent evaluation by the SCCS?
In December 2023, the SCCS finalized its evaluation of Silver Zinc Zeolite as a cosmetic preservative. After reviewing toxicological evidence, the SCCS determined that Silver Zinc Zeolite with a maximum silver content of 2.5% is safe in spray deodorant and powder foundation at a concentration of 1%.
4. What are the implications for cosmetic manufacturers?
Manufacturers must ensure that their cosmetics comply with EU cosmetic regulations, including any updates or changes such as the SCCS opinion on Silver Zinc Zeolite. Products containing Silver Zinc Zeolite should be reformulated according to the SCCS recommendations, and the Product Information File (PIF) must be updated accordingly.
5. How does this SCCS opinion affect UK-only marketed products?
While the UK is no longer part of the EU, the UK regulator still recognizes the SCCS opinion. Manufacturers should consult with their assessors to determine how their products are affected by this update and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
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