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The UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has released an update that will be particularly relevant for companies exporting cosmetic products from the United Kingdom to trans-Pacific markets. This change is linked to the UK’s accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and may reduce a common administrative burden for UK exporters. Table of contents What’s the change? Which countries are impacted? Why does this matter for UK cosmetic businesses? Practical note for exporters Need support with cosmetic exports from the UK? UK update on Certificate of Free Sale (CFS): What cosmetic exporters should know for CPTPP markets What’s the change? With the entry into force of the UK’s CPTPP membership, the Certificate of Free Sale (CFS) is no longer viewed as a mandatory requirement to sell, distribute, or place cosmetic products on the market in CPTPP member countries. In other words, for exports to CPTPP markets, the CFS should no longer be treated as a strict “market access document” needed to import cosmetics. Which countries are impacted? In practical terms, this update affects exports to CPTPP territories where local authorities or commercial partners previously requested a CFS as part of the import documentation, including: Australia Brunei Canadá Chile Japón Malasia México Nueva Zelanda Perú Singapur Vietnam Why does this matter for UK cosmetic businesses? For many exporters, requesting and issuing a CFS can add cost and time to the export process. Under this updated framework, UK businesses may benefit from: Less bureaucracy when shipping cosmetics to CPTPP countries Lower administrative costs linked to additional certificates Smoother export processes to key Asia-Pacific markets Faster timelines, particularly when documentation was a bottleneck Overall, it is a positive development that supports international trade and facilitates access to strategic markets. Practical note for exporters Although this update brings a welcome simplification, we still recommend checking the import requirements case by case, since: some importers may continue requesting the CFS as part of their internal procedures, local authorities may apply transitional practices, other documentation (labels, product information, notifications, etc.) can still be required depending on each country. Need support with cosmetic exports from the UK? At Belab Services, we help brands and manufacturers manage regulatory compliance and export readiness across multiple markets worldwide. If you export cosmetics from the UK and want to confirm whether your documentation package is correctly aligned for CPTPP countries, our team can support you with a tailored regulatory review. Get in touch with our team of experts today

IFRA has launched a public consultation on the draft 52nd Amendment to the IFRA Standards, a significant move for the cosmetics and perfumery industry, as it introduces a wide range of new restrictions and revisions on aromatic ingredients. This draft proposes measures focused primarily on skin sensitization and, in some cases, systemic toxicity, two endpoints that directly impact the safety assessment, formulation, and technical documentation associated with perfumed products. For brands that operate in multiple markets (EU, UK, GCC, US, etc.), anticipation is key: IFRA updates often translate into reformulations , adjustments in fragrance supply, and mandatory updates to regulatory dossiers. Table of contents What does IFRA's Draft 52nd Amendment include? Why is this important for cosmetic brands and manufacturers? Expected dates: When would the new restrictions apply? How can Belab Services help you? IFRA 52nd Amendment: New restrictions for Fragrances (2025–2029) What does IFRA's Draft 52nd Amendment include? According to the published information, the draft includes: 40 new restriction standards based on skin sensitization and systemic toxicity 11 additional standards based solely on skin sensitization 15 reviews of existing restrictions Review related to musk ketone specifications Update related to the restriction of furocoumarins From a regulatory point of view, this is not a minor change: it can affect multiple product categories (leave-on, rinse-off, hair products, perfumes, etc.) and different formulation strategies. Why is this important for cosmetic brands and manufacturers? Although IFRA is not a European “law” as such, its standards serve as an international technical reference and, in practice, many distribution chains, B2B clients, retailers and regulatory authorities require them as a condition for operating. This means that IFRA updates can become commercially mandatory , and failure to comply can result in: marketing blocks by distributors/retailers, inconsistencies in technical files and safety assessments, release delays, need to reformulate with little advance notice. Expected dates: When would the new restrictions apply? According to the draft communication, the expected timeline would be: November 2026 : Publication of the official notification October 2027 : Implementation for new creations June 2029 : Implementation for existing creations Even though it seems like a wide margin, the operational reality is that a reformulation involving fragrances requires time: stability, compatibility with packaging, revalidation of claims, and complete updating of technical documentation. How can Belab Services help you? At Belab Services we help brands and manufacturers prepare and execute regulatory compliance strategies for cosmetics and perfumed products in multiple markets. If you need support to assess the impact of IFRA's Draft 52nd Amendment on your portfolio (EU/UK, export and technical documentation), we can help you establish a realistic and actionable plan. Get in touch with our team of experts today

The Council of the European Union has given its final approval to the new Detergents and Surfactants Regulation , a regulatory update aimed at harmonizing marketing in the European market, improving consumer information and strengthening the protection of human health and the environment. This new framework replaces and modernizes the regulations in force since 2004, incorporating elements aligned with technological innovation and current industry priorities: traceability, sustainability and reinforced control of imported products. Table of contents Why was this reform necessary? Main features of the new Regulation on Detergents and Surfactants When does it come into effect and when will it apply? Official source The EU approves the new Detergents and Surfactants Regulation: what changes and how to prepare Why was this reform necessary? Although detergents are essential products in domestic and industrial hygiene, they are still chemical mixtures with properties that can generate risks if they are not properly managed in terms of safety, labeling and use. The European Commission had already pointed out that the previous framework overlapped with other chemical regulations (especially at the level of information and labelling), which generated duplication and complicated clear communication to consumers and health authorities. Main features of the new Regulation on Detergents and Surfactants 1) Scope update: innovation and new formats The new regulation incorporates market advancements, including detergents containing microorganisms , an increasingly relevant category in cleaning products due to its biotechnological approach. Furthermore, the text also promotes more sustainable business practices such as refillable sales , which is especially relevant for brands seeking to reduce packaging and environmental footprint. 2) Clearer and modernized labeling (including digitization) One of the stated objectives of the regulation is to simplify consumer information , clarify requirements, and facilitate compliance for businesses. Along these lines, the following is introduced: Digital labeling Digital product passport for detergents and surfactants These changes represent a major shift in compliance management: not only will what appears on the physical label be key, but also the consistency of the digital content associated with the product. 3) Greater control in security, environment and market surveillance The regulation strengthens the requirements related to: Product safety Environmental impact Transparency for authorities Market surveillance , especially for imported products This point is critical for brands that manufacture outside the EU (for example in Asia) and market in Europe, as document control and traceability gain regulatory weight. 4) More efficient access to information for poison control centers and health systems The new framework also seeks to facilitate the availability of useful information for authorities, health systems and poison centers , improving the capacity to respond to incidents or accidental poisonings. 5) Prohibition of animal testing in detergent production Among the most relevant aspects, the Council confirms that the regulation establishes that the use of animal testing in the production of detergents will be prohibited . When does it come into effect and when will it apply? Following this approval in the Council, the text still needs to be approved in a plenary session of the European Parliament. Once definitively adopted, the new rules will apply three and a half years after the Regulation comes into force, which opens a realistic window for technical and documentary adaptation by the sector. At Belab Services we help brands and manufacturers adapt their home care products, detergents and chemical mixtures to the European regulatory framework, with a technical, practical and market-oriented approach. If you need support to assess the impact of this new regulation on your portfolio (including labeling, claims, documentation and compliance strategy), our team can help you. Official source Information based on the statement from the Council of the European Union on the approval of the Detergents and Surfactants Regulation (8 December 2025). Get in touch with our team of experts today

The European Union has recently approved Regulation (EU) 2026/78 , also known as Omnibus Regulation VIII . This Regulation amends the current Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 , introducing updates regarding the use of certain substances classified as CMR  (carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction). Entry into force / compliance deadline: 1 May 2026 From this date, no cosmetic products may be placed on the EU market  if they do not comply with the restrictions listed below or if they contain substances newly included in Annex II (prohibited substances) . Below you can find a summary of the main changes: ANNEX II: Prohibited Substances Not permitted in cosmetic products from 1 May 2026 Substance / Group Key comment Perboric acid and its salts (incl. perborates) Reorganization and unification of existing entries Silver - Solid silver (particle diameter ≥ 1 mm) Explicitly prohibited Silver - Silver in the form of nanoparticles (1 nm < particle diameter ≤ 100 nm) Clear prohibition as a nanomaterial Carbon nanotubes (various specific types) CMR Classified and forbidden Acetone Oxime New inclusion by CMR classification N,N’-methylenediacrylamide New CMR substance Trimethyl Borate New CMR substance Other CMR substances listed in the Regulation Compounds with chemical names, rarely used in cosmetics. Please refer to the full regulatory table (available upon request / attached). ANNEX III: Restricted Substances Permitted only under the following specific conditions Substance Main Restrictions Silver (powder form) [100 nm < particle diameter ≤ 1 mm] Toothpaste and Mouthwash – 0.05% max  concentration in the final cosmetic product. Hexyl Salicylate a) Hydroalcoholic-based fragrances (except those intended for children <3) – 2% max   \n b) Rinse-off products (except shower gel/bath, hand wash, hair conditioner and shampoo intended for children <3) – 0.5% max   \n c) Leave-on products (except hair conditioner, body lotion, face cream, hand cream, lipstick/lip balm and fragrance products intended for children <3) – 0.3% max   \n d) Toothpaste – 0.001% max   \n e) Mouthwash – 0.001% max   \n f) Shower gel/bath products, hand wash, shampoo, hair conditioner, body/face/hand (skin) care, lipstick/lip balm and fragrance products intended for children <3 – 0.1% max   \n Note:  Not to be used in preparations for children under 3 years of age, with the exception of (d) “Toothpaste” and (f). ANNEX IV: Allowed Colorants Permitted only under the uses indicated below Substance Main Restrictions CI 77820 – Silver (powder form) [100 nm < particle diameter ≤ 1 mm] Lip products and Eye shadow – 0.2% max  concentration in the final cosmetic product. ANNEX V: Allowed Preservatives Permitted only under the uses indicated below Substance Main Restrictions o-Phenylphenol / Sodium o-phenylphenate a) Rinse-off products – 0.2% max  (as phenol) \n b) Leave-on products – 0.15% max  (as phenol) \n When used together, the combined concentration (as phenol) shall not exceed 0.2% in rinse-off  and 0.15% in leave-on . \n Not to be used in applications that may lead to exposure of the end-user’s lungs by inhalation. Not to be used in oral products. \n Label warning required:   Avoid contact with eyes ANNEX VI: UV Filters Allowed ✅ No changes have been introduced. Important note (market placement) On this occasion, no distinction has been made between newly launched products and products already on the market .Therefore, from 1 May 2026 , NO cosmetic products  may be placed on the market that do not comply with the restrictions above, or that contain substances newly included in Annex II .

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has published a proposal to expand the list of permitted active ingredients in over-the-counter (OTC) sunscreens in the United States. This initiative is part of the agency's efforts to update the regulatory framework for sun protection and evaluate UV filters with a proven track record of use in other international markets. Table of contents What does the FDA's proposal entail? Preliminary scientific review Regulatory framework for sunscreens in the United States Conclusion FDA moves forward with expanding the list of active ingredients for sunscreens What does the FDA's proposal entail? The FDA is evaluating the possible inclusion of bemotrizinol, an organic UV filter, within the OTC monograph of sunscreens. Preliminary scientific review It provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation. It exhibits high photostability, helping to maintain the product's effectiveness after sun exposure. It shows low systemic absorption after topical application, according to the studies evaluated. It has a long history of use outside the United States, especially in advanced sun protection formulations. Regulatory framework for sunscreens in the United States In the United States, sunscreens are subject to a specific regulatory framework as OTC products, which means that only active ingredients expressly included in the corresponding monograph can be used. Unlike other markets such as the European Union, Australia, or Japan, the list of authorized UV filters in the U.S. has remained virtually unchanged for decades. This situation has limited innovation in formulation and hindered the harmonization of products globally. The possible incorporation of bemotrizinol would therefore represent a significant step towards updating the list of UV filters available on the US market, bringing it closer to regulatory standards already established in other regions. Conclusion The FDA's proposal to expand the list of active ingredients in sunscreens reflects a gradual step toward modernizing the U.S. regulatory framework for sun protection. While still in its preliminary stages, this development is particularly relevant for brands, formulators, and regulatory teams planning their entry into or expansion within the U.S. market. At Belab Services, we continuously monitor these types of initiatives and support our clients in the regulatory assessment and compliance of OTC products , both in the United States and in other international markets. Get in touch with our team of experts today.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has published a report, required by Congress under the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA), evaluating the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in cosmetic products marketed in the United States. After reviewing the available scientific evidence, the FDA concludes that current data are insufficient to draw clear conclusions about the safety of most PFAS used in cosmetics, primarily due to significant gaps in available toxicological information. Table of contents Use of PFAS in cosmetics: key findings from the report Scope of the report Conclusion FDA: There is insufficient data to assess the safety of PFAS in cosmetic products PFAS in cosmetics: Key findings from the report According to the mandatory cosmetic product listing data submitted to the FDA under MoCRA: 51 PFAS are being used in 1,744 cosmetic formulations. The assessment focused on the 25 most commonly used PFAS, which represent approximately 96% of the PFAS intentionally added to cosmetic products. For most of these substances, the FDA identified that toxicological data are incomplete or nonexistent, limiting the agency's ability to conduct a robust risk assessment. Although five PFAS appeared to present a low level of concern under their intended conditions of use, the FDA was unable to draw definitive conclusions for most of the substances evaluated. Furthermore, one of the PFAS analyzed was identified as potentially concerning, although significant uncertainties remain due to a lack of data. PFAS in Cosmetics: Scope of the report The report focuses exclusively on PFAS intentionally added as ingredients in cosmetic products. It does not address the potential presence of PFAS as unintentional contaminants. PFAS are synthetic substances used for properties such as water resistance, durability, or texture modification, but their persistence in the environment and their potential toxicity have generated growing health and environmental concerns, prompting greater regulatory attention at the state, federal, and international levels. Conclusion The FDA report highlights significant scientific uncertainty regarding the safety of PFAS in cosmetic products. While it does not introduce any immediate bans, it reinforces the regulatory focus on these substances and anticipates increased regulatory scrutiny in the short and medium term. At Belab Services, we closely monitor regulatory and scientific developments regarding PFAS and support our clients in regulatory assessment, formulation review, and compliance planning in markets such as the United States and the European Union. Get in touch with our team of experts today.

British authorities have notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of a proposed amendment to the cosmetics regulations applicable in Great Britain, which introduces significant changes regarding ingredients. The amendment affects both the restriction of certain substances and the expansion of the list of ingredients prohibited by their CMR classification. Table of contents New conditions for hexyl salicylate Expansion of the list of prohibited CMR substances In summary United Kingdom: New Restrictions on Hexyl Salicylate and CMR Bans New conditions for hexyl salicylate One of the most notable aspects of the proposal is the introduction of usage limits for hexyl salicylate , an ingredient widely used in perfumery and cosmetic formulations. Until now, this substance was not subject to specific restrictions under British cosmetic regulations. However, its classification as a skin sensitizer and a reproductive toxicant (category 2) has led authorities to establish differentiated usage conditions depending on the product type, including rinse-off products, leave-on products, and formulations intended for infants. The proposal also includes transitional periods, allowing the marketing for a limited time of products already introduced into the market before the new restrictions come into force. Expansion of the list of prohibited CMR substances In parallel, the amendment provides for the inclusion of new substances classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to reproduction (CMR) in the annex of prohibited ingredients. This type of update responds to the strict application of the consumer safety principle, reinforcing the exclusion of ingredients whose hazard profile is not compatible with continued cosmetic use. The full list of substances affected by this amendment can be found in the official document notified to the WTO, available at the following link In summary The notification issued by the United Kingdom anticipates further regulatory adjustments regarding cosmetic ingredients, confirming the evolution of the British regulatory framework following Brexit. Although the proposal is still in the consultation phase, it represents a key reference point for monitoring future obligations applicable to the UK market. At Belab Services, we continuously monitor regulatory changes in the UK and support our clients in the technical and regulatory interpretation of these updates. Get in touch with our team of experts today

Canada has confirmed the phased introduction of new fragrance allergen labeling requirements for cosmetic products, a change relevant to all brands that operate or want to operate in this market. Table of contents Allergen Regulation and Labeling in Canada Conclusion Canada Moves Closer to the European Model on Allergens Allergen Regulation and Labeling in Canada The new regulation clearly brings the Canadian framework closer to the European model. From 2026, certain fragrance allergens must be declared individually in the ingredient list when they exceed the same thresholds already established in the EU: 0.001% in leave-in products and 0.01% in rinse-off products. In this context, the generic use of the term "Parfum" will no longer be sufficient in many cases. Implementation will be phased in. Initially, a set of allergens will be required to be declared, and later the scope will be expanded to cover a much longer list. Although the timeline may seem distant, the technical impact is immediate, especially for brands with large product portfolios, multiple items, or packaging with limited space. April 12, 2026 : all cosmetics, new and existing, must declare the first 24 fragrance allergens in the list of ingredients. August 1, 2026 : New products must comply with the expanded list of 81 allergens . August 1, 2028 : Products already on the market will also have to adapt to the expanded list. This change necessitates reviewing actual formulations, verifying the consistency of the data submitted in the CNF (National Formulary), and anticipating potential labeling adjustments. In practice, the greatest risk is usually not the deadline itself, but rather last-minute corrections, reprocessing, and unnecessary disruptions to marketing. Conclusion At Belab Services, we support brands through these types of regulatory transitions, helping them anticipate changes through allergen audits, label reviews, and regulatory alignment for Canada, the European Union, and other strategic markets. Get in touch with our team of experts today.

The US Food and Drug Administration has published an administrative proposal to amend the Over-the-Counter (OTC) Monograph M020 for sunscreens and allow the use of bemotrizinol as an active ingredient in over-the-counter sunscreens in the United States. This initiative responds to a request from the industry and opens a new chapter in the evolution of sunscreens in the US market, where no new active ingredient has been added for more than two decades. Table of contents Bemotrizinol, BEMT or Tinosorb S Conclusion FDA: Proposal to include bemotrizinol in the OTC monograph Bemotrizinol, BEMT or Tinosorb S Bemotrizinol (also known internationally as BEMT or Tinosorb S) is a broad-spectrum, liposoluble organic sunscreen capable of absorbing UVA and UVB radiation. It is characterized by its high photostability and favorable safety profile, with low systemic absorption and minimal reported skin irritation. Available scientific data show that this compound has been widely used in sunscreen formulations outside the U.S. for years, and its inclusion aims to bring U.S. regulations closer to the standards observed in other developed markets. The proposed amendment establishes specific conditions of use: bemotrizinol could be used at up to a 6% concentration and combined with other recognized active ingredients, provided that the final product meets the requirements of the OTC monograph, including efficacy testing and labeling according to current regulations. If the regulation were adopted in its final form, bemotrizinol would be considered "Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective" (GRASE) for sunscreens intended for adults and children over six months of age, allowing its marketing without the need for individual drug approval. Conclusion This regulatory move is part of a broader FDA effort to modernize the monograph system for over-the-counter drugs—including sunscreens—and promote scientific innovation in sun protection formulations. Although the proposal remains open for public comment until January 2026, its progress has already generated interest among formulators and dermatologists, who see bemotrizinol as a tool for delivering more effective formulations with an improved sensory profile. Get in touch with our team now

“La EPA propone cambios a la norma de reporte de PFAS bajo TSCA en EE. UU., introduciendo exenciones y plazos más cortos. Comentarios abiertos hasta diciembre de 2025.” Changes to the PFAS reporting standard under TSCA in the U.S. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed changes to the rule requiring manufacturers and importers to report information on PFAS substances under the Transactions and Substances Control Act (TSCA). The idea is to limit the scope of the obligation to cases that actually provide relevant data and reduce the administrative burden for low-risk or difficult-to-trace activities. The proposal introduces several new exemptions. These include PFAS present in very low quantities, certain byproducts not intended for the market, unintentional impurities, intermediates that are not isolated during the production process, and materials intended exclusively for research. It also proposes excluding certain imported items containing PFAS. In parallel, the EPA is proposing a shorter reporting schedule. With the change, companies would have a three-month period to submit the information, beginning sixty days after the rule is finalized. The text is open for public comment until December 29, 2025. The final version may modify the scope of the exemptions, so companies interested in continuing to use these substances—or that could benefit from the changes—should review the proposal and participate in the process. Contact our team of experts in international cosmetic regulation.

ECHA submitted its 12th recommendation to the European Commission to add four substances to the authorization list (Annex XIV) of REACH. These substances come from the “SVHC” list (substances of very high concern) and have been selected as high priority due to their potential risks to human health or the environment. Table of contents Proposed substances What does this recommendation entail? ECHA recommends adding four substances—barium diboron tetraoxide, TPO, a phosphorodithioate, and melamine—to the REACH 2025 authorization list. Proposed substances The four recommended substances are: Barium diboron tetraoxide — classified as toxic to reproduction, with possible uses in paints and coatings. S-(tricyclo[5.2.1.02,6]deca-3-en-8(or 9)-yl) O-(isopropyl or isobutyl or 2-ethylhexyl) phosphorodithioate — substance with PBT properties, used in inks, toners, coatings and adhesives. Diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide — also classified as reproductively toxic, used in inks, coatings and adhesives. Melamine — noted for its high persistence, mobility in water and toxicity, with use in polyurethane and intumescent foams. What does this recommendation entail? If the Commission approves the recommendation, these substances will be added to Annex XIV of REACH. This means that, to continue using them legally in the EU, manufacturers, importers, or downstream users will need to apply for authorization before the established deadline. The authorization process aims to ensure that its use is safe, or that safe substitutes are applied, especially when the substance poses a high risk to health or the environment. Contact our international cosmetic regulation team

The European Commission has published Regulation (EU) 2025/2269, which introduces corrections to Regulation (EU) 2022/1616 on recycled plastics intended to come into contact with food. It does not change the substance of the regulation, but clarifies points that were causing confusion within the industry. Table of contents Labeling and documentation Responsibility for security reports Confidentiality Transfer of authorizations Entry into force The EU amends the Regulation on recycled plastics for food contact: clarifications on labeling, responsibilities, confidentiality, and transfers. Effective December 2025. Labeling and documentation The new text confirms that mandatory information must accompany the recycled material at the time it is delivered to the processor. This clarification seeks to avoid different interpretations among operators and ensure traceability from an early stage of the process. Responsibility for security reports It specifies that the safety report for recycling technologies must be published by the technology developer, not by the recycler using it. The change clarifies responsibilities and facilitates technical evaluation by the authorities. Confidentiality Technical summaries and process diagrams of new technologies can no longer be declared confidential. The Commission wants to guarantee access to basic information in order to properly evaluate the authorized processes. Transfer of authorizations If an authorization is transferred to another company, it will be mandatory to formally notify the Commission. This requirement was not explicitly defined in the original text. Entry into force The corrections take effect on December 3, 2025. Companies will need to review documentation, supplier agreements, and traceability procedures to align with the changes. Contact our international cosmetic regulation team