Brussels, 30 September 2024 – The European Commission has published Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/2564, approved on 19 June 2024, in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU). This regulation, which amends Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008, introduces important changes to the harmonised classification and labelling of certain chemical substances, many of which are used in cosmetic products. This update strictly regulates the use of chemical substances that pose risks to human health and the environment.
Regulatory Developments in Cosmetic Ingredients
Among the substances affected, the Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has highlighted several ingredients of interest in the cosmetics industry that have been reclassified as CMR substances (Carcinogenic, Mutagenic or Toxic for Reproduction):
Silver (CAS 7440-22-4) : Classified as a Category 2 reprotoxicant, meaning it may adversely affect human reproduction.
Hexyl Salicylate (CAS 6259-76-3) : Also classified as a Category 2 toxicant, widely used in fragrances and personal care products.
O-Phenylphenol (O-Phenilfenol, CAS 90-43-7) : Classified as a category 2 carcinogen, used as a preservative in some cosmetic products.
These substances will have to comply with the new regulations in order to meet the safety standards established throughout the European Union. The deadline for the implementation of these regulations will be 1 May 2026 , although suppliers can choose to comply with the new requirements voluntarily before that date.
Adaptation to the Cosmetic Regulation
It is important to highlight that the Delegated Regulations for Adaptation to Technical Progress (ATP) must be integrated into the Cosmetics Regulation through future Omnibus Regulations. In this context, the application of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/2564 and the corresponding Omnibus Regulation will be simultaneous, both being established from 1 May 2026 .
The adoption of these changes reflects the European Union's continued commitment to protecting consumer health and the environment by ensuring that chemicals used in cosmetic products are safe and appropriately labelled. The harmonised implementation of these regulations will allow for more rigorous control of products available on the market.
Impact on the Cosmetics Industry
Cosmetic companies will have to review their product formulations and make adjustments in accordance with the new regulations to avoid the marketing of prohibited or incorrectly labelled ingredients. This update represents a challenge, but also an opportunity for companies to innovate in the development of safer and more sustainable products.
Links of interest
This new regulation reaffirms the EU's commitment to safety and sustainability in the production and marketing of chemical products throughout the region.
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