Using Human Biomonitoring Data to Support Risk Assessment of Cosmetic Ingredients—A Case Study of Benzophenone-3

Abstract

Safety assessment of UV filters for human health by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) is based on the estimation of internal dose following external (skin) application of cosmetic products, and comparison with a toxicological reference value after conversion to internal dose. Data from human biomonitoring (HBM) could be very useful in this regard, because it is based on the measurement of real-life internal exposure of the human population to a chemical. UV filters were included in the priority list of compounds to be addressed under the European Human Biomonitoring Initiative (HBM4EU), and risk assessment of benzophenone-3 (BP-3) was carried out based on HBM data. Using BP-3 as an example, this study investigated the benefits and limitations of the use of external versus internal exposure data to explore the usefulness of HBM to support the risk assessment of cosmetic ingredients. The results show that both approaches did indicate a risk to human health under certain levels of exposure. They also highlight the need for more robust exposure data on BP-3 and other cosmetic ingredients, and a standardized framework for incorporating HBM data in the risk assessment of cosmetic products.

Benzophenone-3 and antinuclear antibodies in U.S. adolescents and adults ages 12-39 years

“…In conclusion, our findings partially support the idea that BP-3 concentrations may be associated with ANA in the winter NHANES sample. Given the widespread use of BP-3 containing sunscreens and other products, further research is warranted in longitudinal studies following individuals with data collected across the seasons, and exposure assessment including internal measures, but also questionnaire data on past and present, along with co-exposures, other sunscreen active ingredients and diverse exposure sources ( 39 ). In particular, given the general lack of association seen in the summer sample, better understanding is needed on the role of personal sun exposures and potential pathways through which UV could mitigate the effects of BP-3 on ANA.…”

Developing human biomonitoring as a 21st century toolbox within the European exposure science strategy 2020–2030

“…the last decade (Choi et al 2015;Rousselle et al 2022). Chemicalrelated policies and regulations would benefit from systematically including HBM to better address aggregate exposure.…”

Endocrine Disruptors in Cosmetic Products and the Regulatory Framework: Public Health Implications

“…Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are not a new phenomenon in the EU. In recent years, they have been a source of concern to the public and to stakeholders who have sought to identify these chemical substances, which are found in many everyday products such as pesticides, biocides, cosmetics, and children's toys [1,2]. EDs cause serious disruptions to the endocrine system, with equally serious implications for human health and overall well-being [3].…”