EU
France Officially Bans PFAS in Cosmetics
On February 20, 2025, the French National Assembly officially adopted a law banning perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in cosmetics. The legislation prohibits manufacturing, importing, exporting, and selling cosmetics, textiles, and waxes containing PFAS from January 1, 2026.
- The ban aims to reduce health and environmental risks associated with PFAS exposure.
- Products containing PFAS below a certain residual threshold (to be determined) may still be permitted.
- The law also includes measures for monitoring PFAS emissions and mapping contamination sites.
This action establishes France as a leader in PFAS regulation, setting a precedent for wider EU initiatives.
SCCS Issues Preliminary Opinion on Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (DHHB)
The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has released a preliminary opinion on the UV filter DHHB, due to concerns about contamination with the phthalate DnHexP. The SCCS concluded:
- A maximum safe contamination level of 0.026% (260 ppm) should be applied if DHHB is used up to 10% in cosmetics.
- The industry should aim for a trace level of 1 ppm as the safety benchmark.
- Public consultation is open until April 25, 2025.
SCCS to Assess Safety of Thimerosal, Phenylmercuric Salts, and Cannabidiol (CBD) in Cosmetics
The SCCS has accepted mandates to evaluate the safety of:
- Thimerosal & Phenylmercuric salts (preservatives): Mercury-containing compounds used in eye products,limited to 0.007%. Their toxicity and environmental impact require further review.
- Cannabidiol (CBD): SCCS will determine maximum safe concentration levels and assess potential THC contamination.
- The review period is 6 months for mercury compounds and 12 months for CBD.
EU “Borderline” Manual Updated for Vial and Ampoule Products
Version 5.4 of the EU Borderline Manual clarifies that cosmetic products in vials or ampoules are acceptable under the following conditions:
- They are not intended for injection.
- Labeling and marketing indicate external use only.
- They do not include any injection device.
This guidance aims to prevent misclassification of cosmetics as medical devices or pharmaceuticals.
UK
UK HSE Publishes Opinions on Silver, Ozone, and Propylparaben
On February 7, 2025, the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) released opinions on classifying three cosmetic ingredients under the GB Mandatory Classification and Labelling (GB MCL) system, the UK equivalent of the EU CLP Regulation.
- Silver (massive, powder, nano): Silver is classified as potentially harmful to fertility and highly toxic to aquatic life, with nano silver being particularly hazardous.
- Ozone: Considered a suspected carcinogen, highly toxic if inhaled, and a potential cause of genetic defects.
- Propylparaben remains unclassified, consistent with previous European findings, though Belgium has proposed classifying it as an environmental endocrine disruptor.
These classifications align with recent EU regulations but could influence future ingredient use in the UK market.
Northern Ireland to Apply EU Packaging and Waste Regulation 2025/40
Following Brexit, European Union law generally does not apply in the UK. However, under the Windsor Framework, Northern Ireland will implement Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste, replacing the outdated Directive 94/62/EC.
Some provisions will not apply in Northern Ireland, particularly those that involve EU Member State obligations, such as:
- Waste management reporting
- Reuse targets for transport packaging
- Green public procurement requirements
Despite these exemptions, this regulation aims to align Northern Ireland with EU sustainability standards while maintaining flexibility for UK businesses.
UK Updates Methyl Salicylate Restrictions in Cosmetics
The UK Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has amended the UK Cosmetic Regulation to include new restrictions for Methyl Salicylate across multiple product categories. Limits vary based on product type and age group:
- Toothpaste: 2.5%
- Mouthwash: 0.1% (children 6-10 years), 0.4% (adults)
- Lipsticks & lip balms: 0.02% (children under 1), 0.03% (adults)
- Body lotion sprays: 0.04%
- Deodorants (aerosol spray): 0.003%
Key deadlines:
- September 30, 2025 – non-compliant products cannot be sold.
- March 31, 2026 – All non-compliant products must be removed from shelves.
These changes ensure alignment with safety concerns while providing a transition period for manufacturers.
USA & Canada
Washington State Moves to Ban 28 Formaldehyde Releasers in Cosmetics
On February 12, 2025, the Washington State Department of Ecology notified the World Trade Organization (WTO)of its proposal to restrict intentionally added formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents (FRAs) in cosmetics. This rule is part of Washington’s Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act.
- The proposed rule lists 28 formaldehyde-releasing chemicals used in cosmetics, prioritizing those that pose high exposure risks to consumers and workers.
- Definition of “intentionally added”: Includes chemicals used in final products, manufacturing processes, and ingredient formulations.
- Implementation timeline:
- January 1, 2027: FRA restrictions take effect.
- January 1, 2028: Retailers must stop selling non-compliant products.
- The public comment period is open until April 11, 2025.
Canada Sets Compliance Timeline for Allergen Labeling
Under new Canadian Cosmetic Regulations, manufacturers must disclose 24 fragrance allergens on product labels by April 12, 2026. Health Canada has outlined an enforcement plan:
- April 12, 2026 – April 11, 2027: Compliance promotion phase (education, guidance, industry support).
- From April 12, 2027: Full enforcement with a risk-based compliance approach.
This transition gives businesses one extra year to comply while ensuring consumer protection.
