Prohibited in cosmetics
Guanethidine sulfate
Safety score · 0–100
Avoid
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
A prescription antihypertensive pharmaceutical — never a cosmetic ingredient. Should not appear in skincare under any circumstance.
Guanethidine sulfate (CAS 645-43-2 as free base, related salts) is a peripheral-acting antihypertensive drug that blocks noradrenaline release from sympathetic nerve terminals. It has been essentially superseded clinically and is not used topically. It is not a permitted cosmetic ingredient in the EU (not on CosIng) or the US (classified as a drug). Any appearance in a cosmetic INCI list reflects database misidentification or formulation error — there is no legitimate cosmetic use.
Skin benefits
- No cosmetic benefit — pharmaceutical only
Known concerns
- Prescription antihypertensive drug — not a cosmetic ingredient
- Systemic effects possible if absorbed
- Not permitted as a cosmetic ingredient in EU or US
- No valid formulation use case
- Presence indicates misidentification or adulteration
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related prohibited in cosmeticss
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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.