Moderate Cosmetic Ingredient GHS Classified

Sodium Selenite

INCI: SODIUM SELENITE

CAS Number
10102-18-8
Function
Skin conditioning, Antioxidant
Safety Rating
MODERATE

Regulatory Status

🇪🇺 EU Status restricted
EU Max Conc. 1%
🇺🇸 US Status permitted
US Notes Selenium sulfide is an OTC active; sodium selenite in cosmetics requires careful justification; not broadly GRAS for topical use

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

Safety Data

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

Calculate MoS for your specific formulation with the MoS Calculator.

GHS Hazard Classification

Globally Harmonized System classification per ECHA C&L inventory and ILO/WHO International Chemical Safety Cards.

Short-term Exposure Effects
The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the liver, heart, nervous system and gastrointestinal tract. Medical observation is indicated.
Long-term Exposure Effects
Repeated or prolonged contact with skin may cause dermatitis. The substance may have effects on the central nervous system, bone and blood. See Notes.
Routes of Exposure
The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its aerosol and by ingestion.

Expert Verdict

HIGH CONCERN: Selenium is a CMR-adjacent element; reproductive toxicity data exists; systemic toxicity risk via dermal absorption; strict concentration limits mandatory; must comply with Annex III conditions; chronic exposure monitoring required

⚠️
Concern Level: High

Regulatory Flags

endocrine_disruptor

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sodium Selenite safe in cosmetics?

HIGH CONCERN: Selenium is a CMR-adjacent element; reproductive toxicity data exists; systemic toxicity risk via dermal absorption; strict concentration limits mandatory; must comply with Annex III conditions; chronic exposure monitoring required The EU classifies Sodium Selenite as "restricted". Safety rating: MODERATE.

Is Sodium Selenite allowed in the EU?

Sodium Selenite EU regulatory status: restricted. Maximum allowed concentration: 1%. This is based on EU Regulation 1223/2009 and its amendments.

What does Sodium Selenite do in cosmetics?

Sodium Selenite functions as: Skin conditioning, Antioxidant. It is classified as a cosmetic ingredient in our database. CAS number: 10102-18-8.

What is the Margin of Safety for Sodium Selenite?

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.

Compliance Tools

Check Sodium Selenite compliance across multiple jurisdictions:

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Ingredient Decoder
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82 Allergen Checker
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Substance Compliance
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MoS Calculator
Calculate Margin of Safety using SCCS methodology
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Heavy Metal Limits
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