Skip to content

Ethylene oxide

CAS 75-21-8
3

Safety score · 0–100

Avoid

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

About

A known human carcinogen and highly toxic sterilizing agent that is completely prohibited in cosmetic products, representing extreme hazard from any exposure.

Ethylene oxide (oxirane) is classified by IARC as Group 1 (known human carcinogen) and EU CLP as H220 (extremely flammable), H301/H331 (toxic if swallowed/inhaled), H314 (severe skin burns), H340 (mutagen), H350 (carcinogen), H360 (reproductive toxicity), and H372 (organ toxicity). EU SVHC identification applies. The EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II explicitly prohibits ethylene oxide in cosmetic products. It is also prohibited as a propellant in aerosols. Exposure causes CNS depression, respiratory irritation, and long-term cancer risk.

Known concerns

  • Known human carcinogen (IARC Group 1)
  • Mutagen H340
  • Severe skin burns H314
  • Reproductive toxicity H360
  • Extremely flammable H220
  • Banned in EU cosmetics (Annex II)
  • Banned as aerosol propellant

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

Check your shelf

Find Ethylene oxide in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains Ethylene oxide and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.

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.