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September 4, 2012

SCCS Calls for Experts on the Safety Assessment of Nanomaterials in Cosmetic Products

Lynn L. Bergeson

On August 31, 2012, the European Commission’s (EC) Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) issued a call for experts on the safety assessment of nanomaterials in cosmetic products. Under Article 16 of the Cosmetic Regulation EC No 1223/2009, any cosmetic product containing nanomaterials must be notified to the EC six months prior to being placed on the market. In case of concern, the EC will request SCCS to provide an opinion. According to the EC website, to meet the expected demand for safety assessments, the Commission Health and Consumers Directorate General intends to identify relevant experts who will assist the work of the SCCS. The Working Group is looking for experts with knowledge in relation to nanomaterials, particularly those used in cosmetic products, in the following areas:

  • Characterization;
  • Chemistry;
  • Systemic toxicity;
  • Genotoxicity;
  • Human exposure (including inhalation);
  • In vitro and alternative methods; and
  • Risk assessment for human health.

The deadline for submission for the call for experts is October 15, 2012.