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Barbiturates

5

Safety score · 0–100

Avoid

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

About

A class of pharmaceutical sedative-hypnotic drugs. They have no cosmetic function and are prohibited from use in cosmetic products.

Barbiturates are a class of CNS depressant drugs derived from barbituric acid, acting primarily as sedatives, hypnotics, and anticonvulsants. They include phenobarbital, pentobarbital, and amobarbital, among others. These substances have no legitimate cosmetic function and are prohibited from use in cosmetic products in most major regulatory jurisdictions including the EU (Annex II). Their use in topical formulations would present risks of systemic absorption and CNS depression.

Skin benefits

  • No cosmetic or skincare applications

Known concerns

  • EU banned in cosmetics (Annex II)
  • CNS depression and sedation risk from skin absorption
  • Narrow therapeutic index — dangerous at relatively low doses
  • Potential for drug interactions and dependency

References

EU

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.