Skip to content

Preservative

THIMEROSAL

CAS 54-64-8 Updated
3

Safety score · 0–100

Avoid

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

About

A mercury-based preservative banned for cosmetic use in the EU. Historically used in eye products and vaccines; classified as an environmental and neurotoxic hazard.

Function

PRESERVATIVE

Skin benefits

  • Historical use as antimicrobial preservative in eye-area products

Known concerns

  • Organomercury compound — EU Annex II banned in cosmetics
  • Acute toxicity, neurotoxicity, aquatic hazard
  • Strong skin sensitiser

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

Related preservatives

3
FORMALDEHYDE
Preservative
 2
PHENYL MERCURIC BENZOATE
Preservative
 5
5-Bromo-5-nitro-1,3-dioxane
Preservative
 5
CHLOROACETAMIDE
Preservative
 5
ISOPROPYLPARABEN
Preservative
 5
PHENYLPARABEN
Preservative
 0
Phenylmercuric salts (including borate)
Preservative
 8
ISOBUTYLPARABEN
Preservative

Check your shelf

Find THIMEROSAL in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains THIMEROSAL and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.

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.