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Banned Substance

O,O'-Diethyl-O-4-nitrophenyl phosphorothioate (Parathion - ISO)

CAS 56-38-2
0

Safety score Β· 0–100

Not Rated

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

Parathion β€” one of the most acutely toxic organophosphate insecticides ever sold. Not a cosmetic ingredient and long banned from agriculture too.

Parathion (O,O-diethyl-O-4-nitrophenyl phosphorothioate, CAS 56-38-2) is a phosphorothioate organophosphate insecticide classified by the WHO as Class Ia β€” extremely hazardous. It works by irreversibly inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, causing cholinergic crisis (miosis, salivation, bronchospasm, seizures, respiratory paralysis). Parathion has caused thousands of occupational and accidental deaths, including numerous dermal-absorption fatalities. It is banned for agricultural use in the EU since 2003 (and in the US for most uses), classified by IARC as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans), and prohibited in cosmetics under EU Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 Annex II. No cosmetic or topical role exists.

Skin benefits

  • Organophosphate insecticide β€” no cosmetic benefit

Known concerns

  • WHO Class Ia extremely hazardous
  • Acute cholinergic toxicity β€” lethal by skin absorption
  • IARC 2B possible carcinogen
  • EU agricultural ban (2003) and Annex II cosmetic ban
  • No cosmetic function

References

EU

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.