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The European Commission has published a draft amendment to the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC No. 1223/2009) introducing new restrictions and prohibitions on cosmetic ingredients. Based on the most recent opinions of the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), these measures aim to strengthen consumer protection and update the regulatory framework in line with the latest scientific data.
Key ingredients affected
Cosmetic ingredients play essential roles in product formulations, acting as preservatives, UV filters, fragrances, or hair dyes. However, when safety or environmental concerns are identified, the European Commission updates the regulation with new bans and restrictions that directly impact their use in cosmetics.
Annex II – Banned substances
Triphenyl Phosphate → proposed ban.
Silver zinc zeolite (except the one authorized in Annex V) → proposed ban.
Annex III – Restricted substances
Water-soluble zinc salts → additional restrictions.
Citral, Geranial and Neral → new restrictions.
Benzyl Salicylate → further restrictions.
Aluminium-containing ingredients → new restrictions.
Acetylated Vetiver Oil (Vetiveria zizanioides, ext.) → new restrictions.
Hair dyes (HC Blue 18, HC Yellow 16, HC Red 18) → specific restrictions.
Hydroxypropyl-p-phenylenediamine and its dihydrochloride salt → new restrictions.
Annex V – Preservatives
Ammonium Silver Zinc Aluminum Silicate → authorized as a preservative.
Annex VI – UV filters
DHHB (Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate) → stricter conditions for use.
When will the changes apply?
The amendment is expected to be adopted in the first quarter of 2026 and will enter into force 20 days after publication in the Official Journal of the EU. The deadline for comments ended on the 14th of September 2025, offering stakeholders a chance to provide feedback before final adoption.
In general, for most of the substances listed, from the 1st of January 2027, cosmetic products containing these substances and not complying with the restrictions shall not be placed on the Union market, and from the 1st of July 2028 cosmetic products containing these substances and not complying with the restrictions shall not be made available on the Union market.
Why it matters for cosmetic brands
These updates are not minor. They require brands to review formulations, update safety documentation and assess potential reformulations to avoid market disruption. Acting early is key to preventing costly recalls or last-minute product withdrawals.
How Cosmeservice can help
At Cosmeservice, we continuously monitor SCCS opinions and EU regulatory developments. Our experts guide you through planning and supporting reformulation if needed. Assessing your formulations against the new restrictions and updating your Product Information Files (PIFs) is essential. With our support, your products remain compliant and ready for the EU market.
Contact us today to prepare your portfolio for the upcoming EU regulatory changes.
