Chlorocresol

Learn about chlorocresol.

On this page

• About chlorocresol
• Safety of chlorocresol
• What we're doing
• What you can do

About chlorocresol

Chlorocresol is a chemical used as:

• an ingredient in some moisturizers and lotions
• a non-medicinal ingredient in medicated creams to treat skin irritations, such as eczema and fungi

Safety of chlorocresol

Under Canada's Chemicals Management Plan, we review and manage the potential risks that chemical substances can pose to Canadians and the environment. We have recently completed our final chemical risk assessment for chlorocresol.

Our final assessment found that chlorocresol is a health concern when the following products are used every day:

• moisturizers and lotions that contain chlorocresol
  • the exposure is greatest with body moisturizer creams and lotions as they're used in greater amounts.
• effects on adrenal glands. Your adrenal glands produce hormones that help with essential functions including, regulating your metabolism, immune system, blood pressure, and response to stress.

The final assessment also found that chlorocresol:

• is not harmful to the environment

What we're doing

To reduce Canadians' exposure to chlorocresol in these products of concern, we're proposing to:

• add chlorocresol to the list of prohibited or restricted ingredients on the Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist.

What you can do

Consumers are reminded to:

• read product labels and follow all safety warnings and directions
  • labels on cosmetics, natural health products, and non-prescription drugs must list all ingredients
• contact the manufacturer if you are unsure whether a product contains chlorocresol
• use over-the-counter products that have a drug identification number (DIN) or natural product number (NPN)
  • these numbers mean the product is regulated under the Food and Drugs Act
• follow the manufacturer's directions to dispose of the product safely

If you're exposed to chlorocresol at work, talk to your employer and occupational health and safety (OHS) official about:

• relevant laws
• safe handling and storage practices
• requirements under OHS legislation and the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)

For more information

• Measuring your exposure to chemicals
• Canada's system for addressing chemicals
• Overview of the Chemicals Management Plan

For industry and professionals

• Chlorocresol - information sheet
• Risk assessment of chemical substances