The SCCS has released its final opinion as part of the SCCS tea tree oil safety assessment, providing clarity on the safe use of tea tree oil (TTO) in cosmetic products. This latest update forms a key part of the ongoing SCCS tea tree oil safety assessment work carried out to evaluate ingredient safety across the EU cosmetics framework.

Following its review, the SCCS concluded that tea tree oil is safe for use as an anti-seborrheic and antimicrobial agent in the following product categories and concentrations:

• Up to 2.0% in shampoo

• Up to 1.0% in shower gel

• Up to 1.0% in face wash

• Up to 0.1% in face cream

The SCCS opinion applies specifically to:

• Tea tree oil compliant with ISO 4730:2017, and the updated ISO 4730:2025, when used in the final cosmetic formulation.

• Dermally applied cosmetic products for adults, excluding aerosolised or sprayable formats that may result in inhalation exposure.

The committee also noted that no stability data were provided for tea tree oil during storage or use. As tea tree oil can degrade when exposed to heat, light, air, or moisture, manufacturers must ensure stability is maintained so the composition remains within ISO-defined limits.

Based on the submitted data, tea tree oil is considered a moderate skin sensitiser.

This final opinion provides important guidance for brands, formulators, and regulatory teams working with tea tree oil in cosmetic applications.

For regulatory guidance or formulation support, please contact the gcrs group Regulatory Team.