Regulatory Status
For full compliance data across 55 jurisdictions, use the Substance Compliance tool.
Safety Data
Calculate MoS for your specific formulation with the MoS Calculator.
Toxicological Studies
9 study endpoints found for Formic Acid. NOAEL (No Observed Adverse Effect Level) values are used to calculate the Margin of Safety per SCCS methodology.
| Endpoint | Value | Route | Species | Study Type | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NOAEL | 1000 mg/kg bw/day | oral | rat | Short Term Toxicity | COSMOS_DB |
| NOAEL | 1000 mg/kg bw/day | oral | rat | Carcinogenicity | COSMOS_DB |
| NOAEL | 1000 mg/kg bw/day | oral | rat | Reproductive | COSMOS_DB |
| dose_tested | 1000 mg/kg bw/day | oral | rat | Short Term Toxicity | COSMOS_DB |
| dose_tested | 1000 mg/kg bw/day | oral | rat | Carcinogenicity | COSMOS_DB |
| NOAEL | 400 mg/kg bw/day | oral | rat | oral | REACH |
| NOAEL | 600 mg/kg bw/day | oral | rat | oral | REACH |
| NOAEL | 0.06 other | 1991 | rat | inhalation | REACH |
| NOAEL | 0.06 other | 1991 | mouse | inhalation | REACH |
GHS Hazard Classification
Globally Harmonized System classification per ECHA C&L inventory and ILO/WHO International Chemical Safety Cards.
Safety Opinions
Official safety assessments from the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) and Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR).
Expert Verdict
Corrosive (H314) at concentrations >10%. EU Annex V restriction to 0.5% must be strictly observed. Global annual volume <0.1 metric ton for fragrance use. All endpoints deemed acceptable by RIFM. EC number: 200-579-1. Must not be confused with formaldehyde — they are chemically distinct.
Regulatory Flags
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Formic Acid safe in cosmetics?
Corrosive (H314) at concentrations >10%. EU Annex V restriction to 0.5% must be strictly observed. Global annual volume <0.1 metric ton for fragrance use. All endpoints deemed acceptable by RIFM. EC number: 200-579-1. Must not be confused with formaldehyde — they are chemically distinct. The EU classifies Formic Acid as "restricted". Safety rating: GOOD. 9 toxicological study endpoint(s) are available in our database. This ingredient has been reviewed by cir.
Is Formic Acid allowed in the EU?
Formic Acid EU regulatory status: restricted. Maximum allowed concentration: 0.5%. This is based on EU Regulation 1223/2009 and its amendments.
What does Formic Acid do in cosmetics?
Formic Acid functions as: pH adjuster, preservative, fragrance ingredient. It is classified as a cosmetic ingredient in our database. CAS number: 64-18-6.
What is the Margin of Safety for Formic Acid?
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.
What is the NOAEL for Formic Acid?
The NOAEL (No Observed Adverse Effect Level) for Formic Acid is 1000 mg/kg bw/day based on a Short Term Toxicity study via oral route in rat. A total of 9 study endpoints are available. Source: COSMOS_DB.
Is Formic Acid classified as hazardous under GHS?
Formic Acid carries a GHS signal word of "DANGER". Hazard statements: Flammable liquid and vapour Toxic if inhaled Harmful if swallowed Causes severe skin burns and eye damage Harmful to aquatic life. This classification is based on the ILO/WHO International Chemical Safety Card and ECHA C&L inventory data. Note: GHS classification applies to the pure substance — at cosmetic use concentrations, hazard thresholds may not be met.
Compliance Tools
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Related Ingredients
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