Saponins

INCI: SAPONINS

CAS Number
8047-15-2 (generic saponins); also referenced as CID 6540709
Function
Surfactant, Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming
Safety Rating
MODERATE

Regulatory Status

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡บ EU Status permitted
๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ US Status permitted
US Notes GRAS for food applications; permitted in cosmetics with no specific restriction

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

Safety Data

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

Calculate MoS for your specific formulation with the MoS Calculator.

Expert Verdict

Hemolytic activity (RBC lysis); membrane-disrupting properties; can act as penetration enhancers (positive or negative depending on intent); source-dependent variability (Quillaja vs. Saponaria vs. soy saponins have different profiles)

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Concern Level: Moderate

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Saponins safe in cosmetics?

Hemolytic activity (RBC lysis); membrane-disrupting properties; can act as penetration enhancers (positive or negative depending on intent); source-dependent variability (Quillaja vs. Saponaria vs. soy saponins have different profiles) The EU classifies Saponins as "permitted". Safety rating: MODERATE.

Is Saponins allowed in the EU?

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

What does Saponins do in cosmetics?

Saponins functions as: Surfactant, Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming. It is classified as a cosmetic ingredient in our database. CAS number: 8047-15-2 (generic saponins); also referenced as CID 6540709.

What is the Margin of Safety for Saponins?

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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