Antioxidant
BHT
Safety score · 0–100
Moderate
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
A synthetic antioxidant that stops oils from going rancid. Considered safe by EU and CIR at low cosmetic levels, but flagged by clean-beauty standards over endocrine and environmental concerns.
Skin benefits
- Effective synthetic antioxidant; prevents oil rancidity
- Stabilizes formulations and extends shelf life
- Used at very low percentages (typically <0.1%)
Known concerns
- Suspected endocrine activity in some animal studies
- Persistent in environment and aquatic-toxic
- Banned or restricted in some clean-beauty standards
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
PubChem
U.S. NIH compound data, GHS hazard codes and toxicity literature.
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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.