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In July 2025, the European Commission published a draft regulation as part of the EU Cosmetics Regulation Update aimed at simplifying several chemical-related frameworks, including Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products. The proposed text focuses on reducing administrative burden without compromising product safety and is part of a wider plan to modernize the EU’s approach to chemicals and cosmetics.
This new initiative is open to public comments and introduces regulatory changes that will affect cosmetic businesses operating in the EU market.
Key Changes in the EU Cosmetics Regulation Update Draft
This is the first revision of the text the Cosmetics Regulation has since its implementation in 2013. Several revisions of the Annexes occurred, but the main text remained untouched.
The proposed amendments introduce several updates that could significantly impact cosmetic product compliance, especially in areas related to notification, labelling, and ingredient management. Below are the most relevant changes for the industry:
Faster approval of new cosmetic ingredients, addition of Article 14a
The proposal outlines a more efficient procedure for adding colorants, preservatives, and UV filters to Annexes IV, V, and VI of the Cosmetics Regulation, as the current regulation lacks a defined procedure for introducing new substances. This aims to accelerate the use of new ingredients and support innovation in product development.
Clarification of CMR substance derogation process, revision of Article 15
The update provides clearer rules for the derogation procedure regarding CMR substances (carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction). Based on over ten years of experience, the revised process offers greater legal certainty for manufacturers and regulators.
Removal of pre-notification for nanomaterials in cosmetics, amendments to Article 16
The current requirement to pre-notify cosmetic products containing nanomaterials—in addition to the standard CPNP notification—will be eliminated. This step simplifies the notification process and removes redundant obligations for companies.
Reduction of redundant reporting for cosmetic companies, Article 22 amended.
The draft regulation proposes to remove duplicate reporting obligations—both for companies and competent authorities—streamlining compliance procedures and cutting down on paperwork. The revision of Article 22 removes the requirement for Member States to review and report on their market surveillance activities every four years, reducing administrative tasks.
Digitalization of the glossary of cosmetic ingredients: Article 33 removed
The glossary of common ingredient names will be digitized, making labelling more accurate and helping companies avoid compliance errors. Article 33 will be removed from the Regulation, and this change also supports harmonization across Member States and improves transparency for consumers. This will be reflected in the whole text, including annexes.
Timeline and Public Consultation
If approved, the regulation would enter into force 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal of the EU. Some provisions will apply immediately, while others will be implemented gradually to allow time for adaptation.
The proposal is currently open for public consultation. Comments may be submitted until 14 October 2025, giving industry stakeholders an opportunity to provide feedback before adoption.
Applicability to the UK Cosmetics Market
This legislative proposal applies only to the European Union and does not extend to the United Kingdom. Since Brexit, the UK has maintained its own version of the Cosmetics Regulation and does not automatically adopt EU updates.
However, UK authorities may decide to align with selected EU changes on a case-by-case basis. For now, cosmetic businesses should treat this as a regulatory development relevant only to the EU.
Regulatory Support for EU Cosmetics Compliance
At Cosmeservice, we help companies stay compliant with evolving cosmetic regulations in Europe. Whether you need support with:
- CPNP notifications
- Cosmetic product safety assessments
- Ingredient restrictions
- Regulatory strategy for EU market access
Our expert team is here to guide you. We continuously monitor new proposals like this one, to ensure your products are aligned with current and upcoming requirements.
Contact us at info@cosmeservice.com to learn how we can support your compliance strategy.
References
- WTO Notification: G/TBT/N/EU/1148
- European Commission Proposal – COM(2025) 531 final
- ePing WTO Portal – Cosmetics Notifications
