Banned poison
Hydrogen cyanide and its salts
Safety score · 0–100
Avoid
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
A highly toxic chemical that blocks cellular oxygen use and can be lethal in small amounts. Listed on the EU prohibited list for cosmetic ingredients with no permitted use in any consumer product.
Skin benefits
- No cosmetic benefit; acutely toxic poison, banned in cosmetics
- Some industrial applications exist outside consumer products under strict controls
Known concerns
- Acutely lethal poison even in small amounts
- Banned from cosmetic products under EU Annex II
- Interferes with cellular respiration
- No safe topical exposure level
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, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.