Pharmaceutical
Tetracaine (INN) and its salts
Safety score · 0–100
Avoid
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
Tetracaine is a prescription local anaesthetic and is explicitly banned from cosmetic products in the EU under Annex II of Regulation 1223/2009 due to systemic toxicity, sensitisation, and carcinogenicity concerns.
Skin benefits
- Potent local anaesthetic used in medical settings
- Effective for short-term pain relief in clinical procedures
Known concerns
- Listed in EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 Annex II as banned for cosmetic use
- PubChem GHS: H301 toxic if swallowed, H317 skin sensitiser, H351 suspected carcinogen
- Systemic toxicity risk including cardiac and CNS effects
- Allergic contact dermatitis is well documented
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.