Moderate Cosmetic Ingredient GHS Classified

Attapulgite

INCI: ATTAPULGITE

CAS Number
12174-11-7
Function
Absorbent, Bulking Agent, Abrasive, Opacifying Agent, Viscosity Increasing Agent
Safety Rating
MODERATE

Regulatory Status

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡บ EU Status permitted
๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ US Status permitted
US Notes No specific FDA restrictions on cosmetic use; not GRAS-listed individually

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

Safety Data

Margin of Safety (MoS)
not established
Dermal Absorption
negligible
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.

Long-term Exposure Effects
Repeated or prolonged inhalation of fibres may cause effects on the lungs. This may result in fibrosis. This substance is possibly carcinogenic to humans.
Routes of Exposure
The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation.

Expert Verdict

Safe in cosmetics in present practices but insufficient data for incidental inhalation safety; long fibers (>5 um) are IARC Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic) while short fibers (<5 um) are Group 3.

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Concern Level: Moderate

Regulatory Flags

Environmental prop65 fda_food_additive

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Attapulgite safe in cosmetics?

Safe in cosmetics in present practices but insufficient data for incidental inhalation safety; long fibers (>5 um) are IARC Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic) while short fibers (<5 um) are Group 3. The EU classifies Attapulgite as "permitted". Safety rating: MODERATE.

Is Attapulgite allowed in the EU?

Attapulgite EU regulatory status: permitted. This is based on EU Regulation 1223/2009 and its amendments.

What does Attapulgite do in cosmetics?

Attapulgite functions as: Absorbent, Bulking Agent, Abrasive, Opacifying Agent, Viscosity Increasing Agent. It is classified as a cosmetic ingredient in our database. CAS number: 12174-11-7.

What is the Margin of Safety for Attapulgite?

not established 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.

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