Opinion of the Scientific Committee on Consumer safety (SCCS) – Opinion on the safety of cosmetic ingredient salicylic acid (CAS 69-72-7)

•The SCCS considers salicylic acid safe when used as preservative at a concentration of 0.5% in cosmetic products.•This Opinion is not applicable to sprayable products and any oral product with the exception of lipsticks.•Salicylic acid is an eye irritant with the potential to cause serious damage to the eye.•It is safe when used for purposes other than preservative up to 3.0% for cosmetic rinse-off hair products.•It is safe when used for purposes other than preservative up to 2.0% for other products than rinse-off hair products.