Limit vitamin A intake via cosmetics

The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment warns against excessive vitamin A intake via cosmetic products

02/12/2014

The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment warns against excessive vitamin A intake via cosmetic products. Excessive intake of vitamin A can lead to headaches and nausea, with chronic high intake even to liver diseases and scaling of the skin. In connection with high intakes (in quantities of 1.5 to 2 mg daily) a reduction in bone mineral density is also discussed.

In cosmetics, vitamin A (retinol and retinol esters) is mainly used to reduce small wrinkles. For adults, the daily intake of vitamin A recommended by the German Society of Nutrition (DGE) is about 1 mg retinol equivalents and is generally achieved through a balanced diet.

The additional intake of cosmetics with vitamin A should therefore be limited. The BfR recommends restricting the concentration of vitamin A in cosmetic products for face and hand care. In contrast, vitamin A should not be used in lip and body care products. (Pm)