SDS of the Week: Sebastian Whipped Creme

“Whipped” but Not Dangerous: What This SDS Tells Us About Aerosol Hair Care

At first glance, Sebastian Whipped Crème—a styling mousse in a pressurized can—might seem harmless, even luxurious. But beneath that fluffy white foam lies an often-overlooked truth: every consumer product has a regulatory footprint. We took a closer look at the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to break down what it means for compliance, retail storage, and safer product decision-making.

 What’s in the Can?

According to its SDS, Sebastian Whipped Crème contains:

• Carbon Dioxide (1–5%) – used as the propellant
  
  
• Alcohols, C16-18 – a fatty alcohol blend
  
  
• Mineral Oil – likely part of the emollient base
  
  

The good news? There are no OSHA-classified hazardous ingredients in this formula. That’s a big win in the regulatory risk column.

 The Not-So-Silent Risk: Pressurized Containers

While the formula itself is non-hazardous, the aerosol format introduces a unique compliance challenge. This product is classified under UN1950 – Aerosols, non-flammable (DOT/IATA/IMDG), and the SDS clearly states:

“Containers may explode when heated or if contaminated with water.”

This matters because even the most benign ingredients can become hazardous when packaged under pressure. Retailers and warehouse operators need to take precautions when storing, shipping, or disposing of these products. Improper disposal? That’s a fast track to violating RCRA regulations for reactive waste (D003 in some states).

Disposal = Hazardous Waste?

Yep. While it’s fine to use at home, unused cans or bulk returns can’t just be tossed in the trash. In fact, the SDS explicitly states:

“Aerosol cans, when disposed as waste, are regulated as D003 reactive hazardous waste in some States.”

So if you’re a retailer handling reverse logistics, expired inventory, or damaged goods—you’ll want to track how many aerosol SKUs you're stocking. Each can could become a regulatory liability if not managed properly.

 Is It Clean Enough?

For brands and retailers vetting SKUs for “clean” shelves, there’s no direct red flag in terms of Proposition 65 or hazardous air pollutants. The SDS confirms:

• No Prop 65 chemicals
  
  
• No HAPs under the Clean Air Act
  
  
• No reportable quantities under SARA 313 or CERCLA
  
  

It also notes that the product meets IFRA guidance for perfumes and complies with VOC limits under state and federal law. That’s a signal of regulatory hygiene, even if it's not explicitly “clean beauty” certified.

Smarter Takeaways

• Low ingredient risk, moderate packaging risk. The danger isn’t in what’s inside the foam—it’s how it’s stored and shipped.
  
  
• Reverse logistics needs rules. Pressurized cans = reactive hazardous waste. Don’t let those returns stack up without a plan.
  
  
• Classify smarter. This product wouldn’t trigger most retail RSLs, but the aerosol format still deserves classification attention—especially if you’re building out compliant e-commerce descriptions or SDS-based risk scores.

Want to instantly flag which of your SKUs are pressurized, flammable, or regulated as hazardous waste? Get in touch with us today.

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