FORMALDEHYDE is graded F (Banned) by Expert·ING, based on COSING regulatory data. It is restricted under EU COSING — AnnexII.
FORMALDEHYDE
Safety grade: F
Formaldehyde is a colorless chemical compound that works as a preservative to prevent bacteria, fungi, and mold from growing in cosmetic products. It's commonly used in very small amounts to keep products safe and fresh during storage and use.
This ingredient prevents the growth of microorganisms in cosmetic formulations, extending shelf life and maintaining product safety and stability.
Graded using: COSING.
- EU COSING — Prohibited
- California AB 2762 — Banned
- Sephora Clean — Prohibited
Last verified: June 7, 2026
Safer alternatives to FORMALDEHYDE
- POTASSIUM SORBATE — Grade B. Broad-spectrum preservative that prevents microbial growth like formaldehyde.
- PHENOXYETHANOL — Grade B**. Common preservative alternative that inhibits bacterial and fungal growth.
- BENZOIC ACID — Grade C**. Organic acid preservative that prevents microbial spoilage in cosmetics.
- DEHYDROACETIC ACID — Grade B. Broad-spectrum preservative that extends shelf life by inhibiting microbes.
- SORBIC ACID — Grade B. Natural preservative that prevents growth of bacteria and mold.
Other CMR Substance ingredients
- CYCLOMETHICONE — Grade F**
- PETROLEUM — Grade F
- STYRENE — Grade F**
- TETRAHYDROFURFURYL ALCOHOL — Grade F**
- CHLOROACETAMIDE — Grade F**
- ETHYLHEXYL ETHYLHEXANOATE — Grade F**
Other Preservative ingredients
- SODIUM BENZOATE — Grade C
- BENZYL ALCOHOL — Grade C**
- METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE — Grade C
- METHYLPARABEN — Grade C
- SALICYLIC ACID — Grade C**