solvent

Aqua

INCI: AQUA
CAS 7732-18-5 EC 231-791-2
Water. The most common cosmetic ingredient, used as a solvent to dissolve other ingredients. Listed first on most INCI labels as it is typically the primary ingredient by concentration.
Limited Data
Insufficient safety data available. Consider enriching this ingredient.
Details

Description

Water. The most common cosmetic ingredient, used as a solvent to dissolve other ingredients. Listed first on most INCI labels as it is typically the primary ingredient by concentration.

Purpose

Function

Solvent, continuous phase carrier in O/W emulsions
Profile

Properties

Silicone
Silicone free
Compliance

Regulatory Status

EU
Permitted
Safety
EXCELLENT
US
Permitted
Absorptionnegligible
Sensitizationnone
MoSadequate
NOAEL1000 mg/kg
ConcernNone
Flags
microbiological-control-requiredeu_children_restrictedepa_safer_alternativeifra_fragrance
Verdict

Inherently safe cosmetic solvent with zero chemical toxicity concern. Risk management focus is on microbiological quality: ≤100 CFU/mL per ISO 17516, absence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli, coliforms, and enterococci. Continuous monitoring per ISO 22716 GMP required; biofilm prevention essential in distribution systems.

US Note

No FDA restriction. Labeled as WATER in US. VCRP universal acceptance.

Assessment

Ratings

Comedogenic0/5
LowHigh
Irritancy0/5
LowHigh
Reference

Identifiers

CAS Number
7732-18-5
EC Number
231-791-2
INCI
AQUA
Category
solvent
Updated
Apr 2, 2026