Moderate Cosmetic Ingredient Sensitization Data

Copper Sulfate

INCI: COPPER SULFATE

CAS Number
C4H8CuN2O4
Function
Tier 3 — Recommended for Robust Dossier
Safety Rating
MODERATE

Regulatory Status

🇪🇺 EU Status restricted
🇺🇸 US Status permitted
US Notes FDA reviewed by CIR as part of the Inorganic Sulfates group. CIR Panel concluded inorganic sulfates (including copper sulfate) are safe as used in cosmetics at reported concentrations. FDA also lists copper powder as a color additive exempt from certification.

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

Safety Data

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

Calculate MoS for your specific formulation with the MoS Calculator.

Sensitization Profile

Contact sensitization data for Copper Sulfate based on clinical patch test studies and IFRA standards.

Sensitization Rate
low
Allergen Class
metal
EU Allergen Listed
no
Patch Test Positive Rate
0.3%
Cross-reactivity Group
none
Reaction Type
contact-dermatitis

Source: ESSCA 2019/20; NACDG 2021-22

Expert Verdict

Copper sulfate is permitted in the US as safe at reported concentrations per CIR review, but has restricted use status in the EU.

⚠️
Concern Level: Moderate

Regulatory Flags

endocrine_disruptor fda_food_additive

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Copper Sulfate safe in cosmetics?

Copper sulfate is permitted in the US as safe at reported concentrations per CIR review, but has restricted use status in the EU. The EU classifies Copper Sulfate as "restricted". Safety rating: MODERATE.

Is Copper Sulfate allowed in the EU?

Copper Sulfate EU regulatory status: restricted. This is based on EU Regulation 1223/2009 and its amendments.

What does Copper Sulfate do in cosmetics?

Copper Sulfate functions as: Tier 3 — Recommended for Robust Dossier. It is classified as a cosmetic ingredient in our database. CAS number: C4H8CuN2O4.

What is the Margin of Safety for Copper Sulfate?

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.

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