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Since the UK left the European Union, a series of Statutory Instruments reshaped how cosmetic products must be placed on the market in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. These changes redefine market definitions, safety obligations, ingredient management, transitional arrangements and labelling expectations. For brands exporting to the UK, understanding the evolution of these legal updates is essential for long term compliance.
Below is a clear, structured overview of the key Statutory Instruments (SI) that have shaped the current UK cosmetics regulation framework from 2019 to 2025.
Statutory Instruments Currently Governing UK Cosmetic Regulation
SI 696/2019 UK Product Safety and Metrology Regulations (EU Exit)
This first publication established the initial separation from the EU Cosmetics Regulation, EU Regulation 1223/2009 and laid the foundation for independent UK requirements.
SI 676/2020 Amendment to the Extent and Meaning of Market
This SI clarified the definition of the “market” and the roles of importer and distributor for cosmetic products placed on the GB market after Brexit. It helped brands understand when they become importers and what their obligations are.
SI 864/2020 EU Withdrawal and EEA EFTA Separation Agreements
This amendment established transitional rules for Northern Ireland and the key indication requirements that apply after Brexit. It provided temporary flexibility for placing products on the NI market.
SI 1460/2020 UK(NI) Indication Regulation
This instrument refined the legal text governing the UK and Northern Ireland interface, supporting the implementation of the NI Protocol and maintaining dual market recognition under specific conditions.
SI 659/2022 Toys and Cosmetic Products Regulations
This SI introduced new chemical restrictions affecting cosmetic and connected products in Great Britain. It signalled a shift towards UK specific substance management, progressively diverging from EU updates. These Regulations amend the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011 and the EU Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products to restrict or prohibit the use of certain chemical substances in toys and cosmetic products, amending technical annexes to the retained EU legislation to include 34 substances to Annex II (List of prohibited substances).
SI 836/2023 Restriction of Chemical Substances Regulations 2023
This update expanded and revised annexes for cosmetic ingredients. It included new restrictions taking effect from mid-2024 and established the direction for future GB specific ingredient management. Amendments were made to Annex III and VI, to lay down the specific cases of use of the mentioned substances, e.g., the use of Methyl-N-Methylanthranilate, aligning the UK Cosmetic Regulation to the EU one.
SI 455/2024 Restriction of Chemical Substances Regulations 2024
This instrument removed the expiry date for recognising EU conformity assessments for Great Britain, offering brands more flexibility when choosing between CE and UKCA pathways. Also introduced the different uses for BHT in cosmetic products sold in the UK mirroring the EU Regulation.
SI 1334/2024 Restriction of Chemical Substances Regulations 2024 No. 2
This update was published with the aim to amend UK product safety and metrology rules, including extended transitional provisions and possible harmonisation in defined areas. It reinforced the continuous evolution of UK compliance requirements. Also, Annex II and III were modified, prohibiting the use of 68 substances and regulating the use of Kojic Acid.
SI 413/2025 Restriction of Chemical Substances Regulations 2025
Scheduled for introduction in September 2025, this SI set provides for arrangements for cosmetic products containing Methyl Salicylate and provides that where these products are placed on the market prior to the commencement of these Regulations, they may continue to be made available on the market until the end of 31st March 2026. It is part of the ongoing restructuring of the UK chemical and product safety frameworks.
SI 901/2025 Restriction of Chemical Substances Regulations 2025
This instrument, not into force yet until 21st January 2026, is likely to further shape notification and regulatory obligations and restrictions across UK cosmetics. It amends Annex VI to change the conditions on the use of 2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone/Oxybenzone (INCI name Benzophenone-3) and reflects the progressive move towards a more autonomous UK regulatory landscape.
October 2025 Draft. SI XX/2026 Restriction of Chemical Substances Regulations 2026
The draft, notified to the WTO on October 2025, and still open for comments, will come into force in 2026, adding 16 substances to Annex II (one of them being 4-MBC, used now as a UV filter and further prohibited), and lying down the rules to label cosmetics made with formaldehyde releasing substances.
November Draft SI XX/2026 Restriction of Chemical Substances Regulations 2026
This draft, notified in November and expected to be published in 2026 will shape the use of several substances. It will introduce 13 substances in Annex II and modify the use of Hexyl Salicylate, introducing several instructions for the use of the substance in Annex III.
Why These Updates Matter in the UK Cosmetics Regulation
Together, these Statutory Instruments form the backbone of the post Brexit UK cosmetics framework. They influence how brands manage ingredients, authorise products, prepare compliance documentation and maintain market access. Understanding these changes helps companies anticipate upcoming requirements and minimise disruptions.
How Cosmeservice Supports Your UK Compliance
Cosmeservice guides international brands through every stage of UK compliance. Our team helps manage ingredient checks, product notifications, safety assessments, labelling reviews and regulatory updates derived from these Statutory Instruments. For personalised guidance on UK cosmetic regulation, contact us at info@cosmeservice.com.
