Methanol
Safety score · 0–100
Moderate
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Methanol is a cosmetic ingredient. Exercise caution due to limited available safety data.
Methanol is restricted under EU Annex III as a constituent of other substances or in mixtures at concentrations ≥0.1% by weight. It carries extensive hazard classifications including H225 (highly flammable), H301/H311/H331 (acute toxicity multiple routes), H370 (organ toxicity - optic nerve), H351 (carcinogenicity concern), H360 (reproductive toxicity), and H302/H319/H336. The specific restriction limits methanol in cosmetics to 5% calculated as a percentage of ethanol and isopropyl alcohol content.
Known concerns
- Systemic toxicity (optic nerve - H370)
- Acute toxicity multiple routes (H301, H311, H331)
- Highly flammable (H225)
- Reproductive toxicity concern (H360)
- EU Annex III restriction (5% max relative to ethanol/isopropanol)
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 — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.