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
2 study endpoints found for Gallic 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 | 119 mg/kg bw/day | oral | rat | oral | REACH |
| NOAEL | 1000 mg/kg bw/day | oral | mouse | oral | REACH |
GHS Hazard Classification
Globally Harmonized System classification per ECHA C&L inventory and ILO/WHO International Chemical Safety Cards.
Expert Verdict
Gallic acid is a plant-derived polyphenol functioning as both an antioxidant and secondary chelator. It forms iron complexes that may cause discoloration; co-formulate with stronger primary chelators like disodium EDTA or sodium phytate to prevent visible complexes. HPbCD complexation improves solubility and anti-biofilm activity. Suitable for botanical and clean-label formulations with low sensitization potential at cosmetic concentrations.
Regulatory Flags
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gallic Acid safe in cosmetics?
Gallic acid is a plant-derived polyphenol functioning as both an antioxidant and secondary chelator. It forms iron complexes that may cause discoloration; co-formulate with stronger primary chelators like disodium EDTA or sodium phytate to prevent visible complexes. HPbCD complexation improves solubility and anti-biofilm activity. Suitable for botanical and clean-label formulations with low sensitization potential at cosmetic concentrations. The EU classifies Gallic Acid as "permitted". Safety rating: GOOD. 2 toxicological study endpoint(s) are available in our database.
Is Gallic Acid allowed in the EU?
Gallic Acid EU regulatory status: permitted. This is based on EU Regulation 1223/2009 and its amendments.
What does Gallic Acid do in cosmetics?
Gallic Acid functions as: Chelating agent (secondary); antioxidant; antimicrobial synergist. It is classified as a Antioxidant in our database. CAS number: 149-91-7.
What is the Margin of Safety for Gallic 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 Gallic Acid?
The NOAEL (No Observed Adverse Effect Level) for Gallic Acid is 119 mg/kg bw/day based on a oral study via oral route in rat. A total of 2 study endpoints are available. Source: REACH.
Compliance Tools
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Related Ingredients
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