Impact of Recent Updates to EU Fragrance Allergen Regulations in Cosmetics

The European Union has recently updated its list of allergens in cosmetics, a move that has significant implications for manufacturers, consumers, and regulatory bodies alike. These changes aim to enhance consumer safety and transparency, ensuring that individuals are well-informed about the products they use on their skin.

The updated regulations focus on a more comprehensive list of allergens that must be disclosed on cosmetic product labels. This includes both naturally occurring substances and synthetic compounds that have been identified as potential allergens. The list of mandatory fragrance allergens will be expanded from the current 26 to 82 substances.

Disclosure thresholds will not change.

What Do You Need to Do

All new cosmetic products entering the EU market must comply with the new regulation by 31st July 2026. The cosmetic products already on the market (e.g. existing stock) must be made compliant by 31st July 2028.

For manufacturers, these updates present both challenges and opportunities. On one hand, the need for more rigorous testing and documentation can increase production costs and complicate the product development process. On the other hand, the update presents a great opportunity for manufacturers to review their formulations, CPSRs, and Product Information Files to ensure they remain compliant with regulations.

Before you start thinking about reformulation, contact us! We can help with reviewing your formula, Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR), and Product Information File to help determine if any action is required.

Conclusion

The recent updates to the EU list of allergens in cosmetics mark a significant shift in the industry, emphasising the importance of consumer safety and transparency. While these changes present challenges for manufacturers, they also offer opportunities for innovation and improved consumer trust. As the cosmetics industry adapts to these new regulations, consumers can look forward to safer products and clearer information about the ingredients they apply to their skin.

The changes may require your products to be relabelled, reformulated if necessary, and your CPSR and PIF updated.

Contact us today for further advice on the steps necessary to stay compliant, especially if your product has been on the market for a long period of time. We can help with updating your Cosmetic Product Safety Report and cosmetic product labelling.