Water
INCI: AQUA
CAS 7732-18-5 EC 231-791-2 (I)
The most common cosmetic ingredient. Acts as a solvent and helps dissolve other ingredients.
Generally Safe
This ingredient has a good safety profile based on available data.
Details
Description
The most common cosmetic ingredient. Acts as a solvent and helps dissolve other ingredients.
Purpose
Function
Solvent, continuous phase carrier in O/W emulsionsSolventSkin Conditioning
Profile
Properties
Vegan
Yes
Silicone
Silicone free
Origin
Natural
Malassezia
Safe
Fungal Acne
Safe
Reef Safe
Yes
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
Reference