The EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has deemed salicylic acid unsafe for use as a preservative at a concentration of 0.5% in all cosmetic products for children ages three to ten. The decision was published following pushback and data from the personal care industry defending the use of the chemical in products used by children. Salicylic acid is a chemical exfoliant known for its acne-fighting properties but can also act as a preservative.
