1,2,3,4,5,6-Hexachlorocyclohexane (BHC-ISO)
Banned Substance
CAS Number: 58-89-9 / -
About 1,2,3,4,5,6-Hexachlorocyclohexane (BHC-ISO)
The HCH (lindane) family — a Group 1 human carcinogen. Once used medically for lice and scabies, now almost globally banned and never a cosmetic.
Detailed Analysis
Hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH, BHC; CAS 58-89-9 for the gamma-isomer lindane) is an organochlorine insecticide that was widely used in agriculture and as a pediatric antiparasitic (Kwell, Lindex) for head lice and scabies. IARC reclassified lindane as Group 1 (carcinogenic to humans) in 2015 based on non-Hodgkin lymphoma evidence. Dermal neurotoxicity — including seizures in children — led FDA to add a Black Box Warning and most countries to restrict or ban it. It is a Stockholm Convention POP (2009 listing), EU CLP Category 1B carcinogen, Category 2 reproductive toxicant, and persistent/bioaccumulative. EU Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 Annex II prohibits it in cosmetics. No cosmetic use is possible.
Skin Benefits
- ✓ No legitimate cosmetic use — banned organochlorine pesticide
Known Concerns
- ⚠ IARC Group 1 human carcinogen
- ⚠ Stockholm Convention POP
- ⚠ Documented dermal neurotoxicity including seizures in children
- ⚠ CLP Cat 1B carcinogen
- ⚠ EU Annex II cosmetic ban
References
EU CosIng Database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry
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