Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety

From the safety assessment based on the available relevant data on the aglycone form of genistein and daidzein, and in consideration of the potential endocrine disrupting properties of phytoestrogens, the SCCS considers that:

• The use of genistein (CAS No 446-72-0, EC No 207-174-9) in cosmetic products up to a maximum concentration of 0.007% is safe.

• The use of daidzein (CAS No 486-66-8, EC No 207-635-4) in cosmetic products up to a maximum concentration of 0.02% is safe.

Genistein and daidzein are isoflavones used in the formulation of leave-on cosmetic products. Both isoflavones belong to polyphenolic category of compounds. The majority of the isoflavone cosmetic ingredients are derived from soybean plants (Glycine max L.). In plants, both genistein and daidzein are largely present in glucoside forms.

Their primarily function is reported as antioxidants, skin protectants, skin conditioning agents, and hair-conditioning agents. Other functions are also reported.

Cosmetic activities of isoflavone extracts are mainly:

– Collagen synthesis stimulation, 

– Enhancer of hyaluronic acid production,

– free radical formation limitation,

– Anti-inflammatory activity,

– Antioxidant activity.

Therefore, cosmetic products with isoflavones extracts, including genistein and daidzein, are mainly used in antiaging products.