Carotenoids

INCI: CAROTENOIDS

CAS Number
36-88-4 (generic); β-carotene: 7235-40-7
Function
Colorant, skin conditioning, antioxidant, UV protectant
Safety Rating
MODERATE

Regulatory Status

🇪🇺 EU Status permitted
🇺🇸 US Status permitted
US Notes Approved color additive (21 CFR 73.95 for β-carotene); exempt from certification

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

Safety Data

Margin of Safety (MoS)
not established
Dermal Absorption
low
Sensitization
low

Calculate MoS for your specific formulation with the MoS Calculator.

Expert Verdict

High-dose oral β-carotene linked to lung cancer risk in smokers (ATBC/CARET studies); topical use considered safe.

⚠️
Concern Level: Moderate

Regulatory Flags

colorant

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Carotenoids safe in cosmetics?

High-dose oral β-carotene linked to lung cancer risk in smokers (ATBC/CARET studies); topical use considered safe. The EU classifies Carotenoids as "permitted". Safety rating: MODERATE.

Is Carotenoids allowed in the EU?

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

What does Carotenoids do in cosmetics?

Carotenoids functions as: Colorant, skin conditioning, antioxidant, UV protectant. It is classified as a cosmetic ingredient in our database. CAS number: 36-88-4 (generic); β-carotene: 7235-40-7.

What is the Margin of Safety for Carotenoids?

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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