Arsenic and its compounds
Safety score · 0–100
Avoid
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
A toxic heavy metal and its compounds, banned from use in cosmetic products due to severe systemic toxicity including carcinogenicity and organ damage.
Arsenic and its compounds encompass a broad range of inorganic and organic arsenic species, many of which are among the most potent toxins known. Arsenic is a confirmed human carcinogen (IARC Group 1) associated with skin, lung, bladder, liver, and kidney cancers. It causes severe systemic toxicity including peripheral neuropathy, cardiovascular effects, and immunotoxicity. Inorganic arsenic compounds are banned from cosmetic products in the EU (Annex II). The restrictions cited (≥0.1% in mixtures, prohibition as aerosol propellant) reflect the extreme hazard even at trace levels.
Skin benefits
- No cosmetic skin benefits — purely a toxic heavy metal with severe health hazards
Known concerns
- EU banned in cosmetics (Annex II) — inorganic arsenic compounds
- Known human carcinogen (IARC Group 1)
- Severe acute and chronic systemic toxicity
- Neurotoxicity, cardiovascular toxicity, immunotoxicity
- Bioaccumulative in the body over time
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.