Toluene

High Concern

Solvent

Also known as

toluenemethylbenzenephenylmethane

The concern

Solvent used in nail polishes and hair dyes. EWG rates it high concern for reproductive and developmental toxicity. Vapour inhalation during pregnancy linked to miscarriage and fetal developmental damage. EU restricts toluene in cosmetics.

Read the source: EWG / EU Commission

What to look for on labels

This ingredient may appear under any of the following names or codes on product labels:

Toluene
toluene
methylbenzene
phenylmethane

Learn more

Read the full evidence directly from the authoritative source.

View source — EWG / EU Commission

Data sourced from IARC, FDA, EFSA, WHO and EWG public data. For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical or legal advice.

← Back to Ingredient Safety Database