France Proposes Terpineol Reproductive Toxicity Label
France plans to classify the cosmetic ingredient terpineol as toxic to reproduction under EU chemical rules.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Beauty
France intends to propose classifying terpineol, a cosmetic ingredient with CAS No. 98-55-5, as toxic to reproduction. A related proposal would change the CLP classification of decanoic acid, also known as capric acid.
Why it matters
Terpineol is not yet regulated under the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 and is not listed in Annex VI of the CLP Regulation, so a reproductive toxicity classification would be a first formal hazard designation for the ingredient. Capric acid is already classified under CLP, and the proposed change would update its hazard profile.
Terpineol (CAS No. 98-55-5) is listed in CosIng without a declared function, while capric acid (CAS No. 334-48-5) already carries CLP hazard classifications for skin and eye irritation and aquatic toxicity. The source does not state whether the proposed terpineol classification has been finalized.
The details
France intends to propose that terpineol be classified as toxic to reproduction, and a related proposal would alter the CLP classification of decanoic acid. Under current rules, terpineol must appear in ingredient lists when its concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products or 0.01% in rinse-off products.
Timeline
- Article on the CLH classifications for terpineol and capric acid was published on November 4, 2026.
Culture Shift
The proposal sits within the framework of the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009, which currently leaves terpineol unregulated. It marks a move to bring a common fragrance-associated ingredient under formal hazard review.
Shoppers who check ingredient lists will see terpineol disclosed once concentrations exceed 0.001% in leave-on products or 0.01% in rinse-off products. Anyone sensitive to fragrance ingredients may want to watch for label changes as the EU review proceeds.
The takeaway
Ingredient regulation in cosmetics often moves in stages, with proposals preceding any binding labeling or hazard rules. Checking ingredient lists for terpineol and capric acid can help readers track these changes as they are finalized.
Further reading
Explore more on Beauty to see how ingredient regulations shape the products on store shelves.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CosmeticOBS.
