ECHA proposes restricting the use of octocrylene in cosmetic products

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has proposed a specific restriction for Octocrylene ( CAS 6197-30-4, EC 228-250-8 ), one of the most widely used UV filters in sunscreens and cosmetics with secondary UV protection.

The measure, presented within a restriction report prepared according to Annex XV of REACH, seeks to reduce the environmental impact of this substance, especially on aquatic ecosystems and possible groundwater contamination resulting from its extensive use.

Table of contents

• Reasons for the proposal

• Content of the proposed restriction

• Public consultation process

• Next steps

• Implications for the cosmetics industry

• Official document

ECHA proposes restricting the use of octocrylene in cosmetic products

Reasons for the proposal

Octocrylene is an effective organic filter against UVB radiation and part of the UVA spectrum, used not only in sunscreens but also in day creams, body lotions, makeup, and lip balms with sun protection.

However, recent studies have shown that octocrylene can accumulate in aquatic organisms, disrupting the ecological balance and releasing persistent byproducts. Given this evidence, ECHA considers it necessary to implement control measures.

The dossier indicates that technical alternatives are available, and that substitution is scientifically and economically viable, thus minimizing the impact on the industry.

Content of the proposed restriction

According to the proposal included in Annex XV (table 45, section 7):

“Octocrylene may not be marketed or used in finished cosmetic products in concentrations equal to or greater than 0.001% w/w .”

The restriction would take effect 24 months after its official publication, allowing manufacturers to adapt their formulations and use up stocks.

The term “finished cosmetic product” is defined in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, i.e. the product ready for final use by the consumer.

Public consultation process

The public consultation on this proposal will open on September 24, 2025, and will last for six months.

ECHA invites manufacturers, industry associations, academic bodies, and national authorities to submit comments based on scientific, technical, or socioeconomic data.

It is recommended that comments be submitted by January 23, 2026, so that they can be analyzed during the evaluation phase by the Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) and Socioeconomic Analysis Committee (SEAC).

All contributions and responses to the dossier will be published alongside the SEAC's draft opinion, ensuring the transparency of the regulatory process.

Next steps

• Autumn 2026: ECHA plans to issue the joint opinion of the RAC and SEAC, which will include both an environmental risk assessment and socio-economic implications.

• The European Commission will then review the findings and decide whether to formally include octocrylene in Annex XVII of REACH, which lists substances subject to restrictions in the European Union.

Implications for the cosmetics industry

This proposal marks a significant shift in the management of cosmetic ingredients under environmental criteria. Although Octocrylene has been widely validated as a safe UV filter for consumers, its ecological impact is causing growing concern.

Companies must:

• Evaluate their presence in sun protection or daily care products.

• Identify technical alternatives compatible with the same levels of protection.

• Participate in the public consultation , providing data on feasibility, costs or replacement.

Official document

The full restriction report (Annex XV Report) and its annexes are available on ECHA's official website:

Annex XV restriction format with instructions

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