Poor Cosmetic Ingredient GHS Classified

1,4-Butanediol

INCI: 1,4-BUTANEDIOL

CAS Number
110-63-4
Function
Solvent, humectant, viscosity controlling agent
Safety Rating
POOR

Regulatory Status

🇪🇺 EU Status restricted
🇺🇸 US Status prohibited
US Notes FDA Class I Health Hazard. FDA has issued warnings; CIR Panel concluded it is not safe for cosmetic use based on in-vivo conversion to GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate). Metabolized to GHB, a CNS depressant. FDA reported adverse health effects including decreased respiration and deaths linked to 1,4-Butanediol-containing products.

For full compliance data across 55 jurisdictions, use the Substance Compliance tool.

Safety Data

Margin of Safety (MoS)
adequate
Dermal Absorption
high
Sensitization
low

Calculate MoS for your specific formulation with the MoS Calculator.

GHS Hazard Classification

Globally Harmonized System classification per ECHA C&L inventory and ILO/WHO International Chemical Safety Cards.

Short-term Exposure Effects
The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system. This may result in narcosis.
Routes of Exposure
The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its vapour and by ingestion.

Expert Verdict

Prohibited in cosmetics due to in-vivo conversion to GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate), a CNS depressant with documented adverse health effects including respiratory depression and fatalities.

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Concern Level: High

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 1,4-Butanediol safe in cosmetics?

Prohibited in cosmetics due to in-vivo conversion to GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate), a CNS depressant with documented adverse health effects including respiratory depression and fatalities. The EU classifies 1,4-Butanediol as "restricted". Safety rating: POOR.

Is 1,4-Butanediol allowed in the EU?

1,4-Butanediol EU regulatory status: restricted. This is based on EU Regulation 1223/2009 and its amendments.

What does 1,4-Butanediol do in cosmetics?

1,4-Butanediol functions as: Solvent, humectant, viscosity controlling agent. It is classified as a cosmetic ingredient in our database. CAS number: 110-63-4.

What is the Margin of Safety for 1,4-Butanediol?

adequate The Margin of Safety (MoS) is calculated using SCCS methodology. A MoS above 100 is generally considered safe. Use the MoS Calculator tool to calculate MoS for your specific formulation and product category.

Compliance Tools

Check 1,4-Butanediol compliance across multiple jurisdictions:

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Ingredient Decoder
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82 Allergen Checker
Check for EU declarable fragrance allergens
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Substance Compliance
Check compliance across 55 jurisdictions
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MoS Calculator
Calculate Margin of Safety using SCCS methodology
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Heavy Metal Limits
Compare limits across jurisdictions

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