Other
PHENYL MERCURIC CHLORIDE
Safety score · 0–100
Avoid
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Phenyl Mercuric Chloride is a cosmetic ingredient used in product formulations. Exercise caution due to limited available safety data.
Phenyl Mercuric Chloride is classified under EU cosmetic regulation entry V/17, which prohibits all mercury compounds in cosmetic products regardless of intended function or rinse-off/leave-on classification. Like other organomercury preservatives, it was used for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity but poses unacceptable systemic toxicity risks. Mercury accumulates in the body causing neurological and renal damage. The prohibition is absolute—no maximum concentration is safe for this class, and any detected use in EU-regulated cosmetic products constitutes a violation.
Known concerns
- EU Annex II banned substance — absolute prohibition in all cosmetic products
- Neurotoxicity and kidney toxicity from cumulative mercury exposure
- Absorbed through skin and mucous membranes
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related others
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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.