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On 10 April 2025, the House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) launched a parliamentary inquiry to assess whether the UK regulatory framework adequately addresses the health and environmental risks of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The committee is seeking written evidence by 26 May 2025. This initiative builds on actions already underway under UK REACH and the persistent organic pollutants (POPs) regulations, which include restriction dossiers on firefighting foams and "dispersive" uses of PFAS. Table of contents 1. British regulatory context 2. Scope of the EAC investigation 3. Key regulatory trends 4. Implications for the industry and recommendation Belab Services 5. Conclusion Official references United Kingdom: Parliamentary inquiry into PFAS and future regulatory reinforcement 1. British regulatory context Instrument Scope on PFAS Current situation POPs (retained Reg. (EU) 2019/1021) Prohibits PFOS; PFOA; PFHxS except for exemptions; applies directly in Great Britain through the POPs Regulation 2023 Current UK REACH Identification as SVHC and possible authorizations/restrictions PFBS, PFHxS, APFO and others included in the HSE Candidate List RMOA PFAS (HSE, 2023) Need for sectoral restrictions concluded In progress PFAS-FFF (firefighting foams) restriction Restriction dossier requested (art. 69) and public consultation closed in 2024 HSE/EA Technical Assessment consultations.hse.gov.uk Rolling Action Plan 2024‑26 Maintains PFAS as a priority for future evaluations Last updated March 10, 2025 HSE 2. Scope of the EAC investigation The committee will examine: Threats and benefits of PFAS throughout the life cycle. Analytical capacity of UK agencies to monitor human and environmental exposure. International comparison with EU and US approaches Adequacy of the current regulatory framework and options for reform (e.g., group-based bans vs. individual substances). Organizations can submit brief reports through the Chamber's online portal; the EAC encourages submission of analytical data, toxicological studies, and replacement costs. 3. Key regulatory trends Tightening residual limits. The recent European proposal to reduce the thresholds for PFOS as a trace contaminant (UTC) anticipates stricter analytical requirements; the United Kingdom is expected to harmonize values to maintain trade equivalence. Approach to dispersive uses: HSE has prioritized coatings, cleaning agents, and consumer goods with direct release to the environment. Companies with surface treatments, functional textiles, or lubricants must prepare mass balances and substitution plans. Fluorinated AFFF foam phase-out. The restriction file will assess withdrawal deadlines, residual use conditions, and collection systems; the airport, petrochemical, and military sectors will have different deadlines. 4. Implications for the industry and recommendation Belab Services Action Suggested deadline Added value PFAS inventory audit (raw materials, emissions, waste) Q2 2025 Anticipates evidence requirements for EAC and future restrictions Analytical tests with LOQ ≤ 1 µg kg⁻¹ in key matrices Continuous Demonstrates compliance capacity in the face of new UTCs Replacing AFFF Design Q3 2025 pilots Reduces environmental liabilities and prevents regulatory obsolescence Participation in the EAC call for evidence Before May 26, 2025 Influencing regulatory developments and exposing technical barriers PFAS-free contractual clauses Renewals 2025 Protects the supply chain against possible recalls 5. Conclusion The parliamentary inquiry reinforces the UK's move toward preventive and cross-cutting PFAS control . Companies should anticipate that residual thresholds and restriction areas will expand over the next two years. A robust system of analytical traceability and technological substitution will be essential to sustain competitiveness and access to the UK market. Official references House of Commons – EAC, Inquiry “Addressing the risks from PFAS” (opening 10 April 2025; deadline 26 May 2025). Committees - UK Parliament HSE, Call for evidence: PFAS in firefighting foams (UK REACH consultation, 2024). consultations.hse.gov.uk HSE, Rolling Action Plan 2024‑2026 (updated 10 Mar 2025). HSE HSE, UK REACH Candidate List of SVHCs (accessed 22 Apr 2025). HSE Contact a cosmetics regulation expert

Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 added entry 78 to Annex XVII of REACH to prohibit or restrict synthetic polymer particles ≤ 5 mm intentionally added to mixtures (“microplastics”). The regulation came into effect on 17 October 2023 and establishes phased phase-out schedules extending to 2035 for certain cosmetics and detergents. In March-April 2025, the Commission published an Explanatory Guide (Parts I-III) clarifying the scope, degradability/solubility criteria and borderline cases, including the placing on the market of plastic glitter. Table of contents 1. Legal framework and supporting documentation 2. Scope and operational definitions 3. Schedule of main obligations (extract from entry 78) 4. Technical highlights of the 2025 Guide 5. Implications for key sectors 6. Belab Services Recommendations Conclusion Official sources REACH: Seis meses desde la restricción a las micro‑partículas plásticas intencionadas 1. Legal framework and supporting documentation Official document Key content State Reg. (EU) 2023/2055 (OJ L 238, 27-Sep-2023) Enter entry 78 and appendices 15-16 (degradability and solubility tests) Effective from 17-Oct-2023 Explanatory guide (Part I) Narrative text and decision trees; translation into 22 languages planned for Q3-2025 Published March 26, 2025 Q&A (Part II) + annexes (Part III) Responses to authorities and sector, examples of borderline cases, labeling dates English only; continuously updated by ECHA 2. Scope and operational definitions In scope : insoluble, non-biodegradable synthetic polymer particles ≤ 5 mm, either alone or added to mixtures (e.g. exfoliating microspheres, loose glitter). Out of scope : degradable polymers (criteria section 15), soluble polymers (section 16), inorganic variants (glass, metal), natural polymers or products classified as articles (e.g. sewing sequins). Glitter : Plastic glitter sold in bulk is considered a mixture and is prohibited unless it is biodegradable/soluble or exempt for professional use with technical containment. 3. Schedule of main obligations (extract from entry 78) Category / use End of sale allowed Additional conditions Loose plastic glitter for arts, toys, or other uses with no transition period October 17, 2023 No exceptions if placed on the market after that date Rinse-off cosmetics October 16, 2027 Total ban from 17-Oct-2027 Leave-on cosmetics October 16, 2029 Idem Makeup, lips and nails October 16, 2035 Between 17-Oct-2031 and 16-Oct-2035, the phrase "This product contains microplastics" must appear. Instructions for use and disposal ( IFUD ) for professional uses (e.g. granular detergents) October 17, 2025/2026, depending on the category Text or pictograms that prevent environmental release Products (including glitter) placed on the market before 17-Oct-2023 No obligation to withdraw They can be sold while supplies last (art. 78§16) 4. Technical highlights of the 2025 Guide Decision trees to verify whether a particle is microplastic (composition, degradability, size). Borderline cases : thermoplastic polymer sands for 3D printing, polymer-coated fertilizer pellets, solid-matrix glitter inks. Repeal due to “technical containment” : mixture admitted if the release is < 7 ppm, verification by mass balance and leaching test. 5. Implications for key sectors Sector Regulatory risk Priority action Cosmetics (rinse-off, leave-on, color) Term ≤ 4 years to reformulate Replace microbeads with cellulose, silica, or polyhydroxyalkanoates; validate performance Detergents and cleaning agents Mandatory IFUD 2025; annual volume report Integrating disposal pictograms and IUCLID sheets for ECHA Paints, inks, glitter adhesives Exempt if the polymer is trapped in a solid matrix Document retention ≥ 99% in abrasion test B2B/B2C Distribution “Contains microplastics” label 2031-2035 for makeup Schedule packaging redesign and review of safety data sheets 6. Belab Services Recommendations Catalog audit : Identify mixtures that release microplastics and classify them according to entry 78. Replacement plan : prioritize families with shorter rinse-off times and evaluate alternatives with biodegradability testing according to Appendix 15. Stock management : Segment batches placed before 17-Oct-2023 to take advantage of stock repeal. Training and communication : Update technical data sheets and provide training to distributors on new labeling and IFUD requirements. Regulatory oversight : Incorporate updates to the Guidance (Part II‑III) and future clarifications from ECHA into your internal compliance system. Conclusion Regulation 2023/2055 constitutes the most extensive restriction approved to date under REACH, with direct repercussions for cosmetics, detergents, cleaning products, arts and crafts, and, in general, any mixture that releases polymer particles. The 2025 Guide offers practical criteria to resolve any questions and confirms that compliance will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, supported by analytical data on degradability, solubility, and containment. Companies have a limited window—four to twelve years, depending on usage—to transform their formulas, adapt their documentation, and redesign packaging before microplastics become a thing of the past. Official sources European Commission. Regulation (EU) 2023/2055: REACH entry 78 EUR-Lex European Commission. Press release – Explanatory guide for the restriction of microplastics (1 April 2025) Internal Market and SMEs European Commission. Explanatory Guide Part I & II (26 March 2025) Internal Market and SMEs Internal Market and SMEs European Commission. FAQ on transition periods (glitter and cosmetics) Internal Market and SMEs Official Journal, entry 78 §§ 7-10 (labeling and IFUD) EUR-Lex Contacta con un experto en regulacion cosmética

On 14 April 2025, the Commission adopted a Delegated Regulation amending the entry for perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), its salts and related compounds in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 (POP Regulation). The reform reduces the limit for PFOS present as an unintentional trace contaminant (UTC) in substances and mixtures by 40 times and harmonizes the permitted values with those previously set for PFOA. The text is subject to a two-month scrutiny period by the European Parliament and the Council; if they raise no objections, it will be published in the Official Journal and enter into force twenty days later, while the new values will apply from December 3, 2025. Table of contents 1. Regulatory context 2. Main technical modifications 3. Implementation schedule 4. Industrial repercussions 5. Compliance Recommendations (Belab Services) Conclusions Official references Regulation (EU) 2019/102: Limits of PFOS as a trace contaminant 1. Regulatory context Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 transposes the commitments of the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants into Union law, prohibiting the manufacture, placing on the market, and use of substances included in Annex I to the Convention, except for limited exemptions. Although PFOS was the first per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance to be regulated in the EU, the current UTC limits (10 mg kg⁻¹ for substances/mixtures and 0.1% w/w for articles) were more than a decade old and were far from the demonstrated achievable technical levels for other PFAS, such as PFOA. 2. Main technical modifications Aspect Previous situation New delegated text Identification of the substance “Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid and its derivatives (PFOS)” “Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), its salts, and PFOS-related compounds” UTC in substances or mixtures ≤ 10 mg kg⁻¹ (0.001% w/w) PFOS ≤ 0.025 mg kg⁻¹ (2.5 × 10⁻⁶ % w/w) of PFOS or any of its salts UTC in articles < 0.1% w/w PFOS in parts containing it or 1 µg m⁻² in coated material ≤ 1 mg kg⁻¹ (0.0001 % w/w) for the sum of concentrations of all PFOS-related compounds Specific exemptions Point 4: Use as a mist suppressor in hard chrome plating (Cr VI) Eliminated, as PFOS has been replaced for that use in the EU Reference to analytical methods (point 5) Included Eliminated 3. Implementation schedule 14 Apr 2025 : adoption by the Commission. 14 June 2025 (maximum): Deadline for Parliament and Council to submit objections. ≈ Jul‑Aug 2025 : publication planned in the OJEU and entry into force twenty days later. December 3, 2025 : date of application of the new UTC limits (items 1 and 2 of the annex). 4. Industrial repercussions Raw materials and formulations Manufacturers of fluorinated substances must demonstrate that residual PFOS is <0.025 mg kg⁻¹. The new value is close to the limit of quantification (LOQ) of current chromatographic methods, so laboratory validation becomes crucial. Articles and coatings Sectors such as metal coatings, technical textiles and optical films will have to adapt specifications to guarantee ≤ 1 mg kg⁻¹ of PFOS-related in the final product. Elimination of the exemption on hard chrome plating Electroplating workshops that still use PFOS-based mist suppressants must migrate to alternatives (e.g., polyalkylsulfonate polymers) and update their emissions permits. Analysis and supply chain Hosting PFOS above the new threshold will automatically render the substance, mixture, or article “non-compliant,” requiring removal and treatment as POP waste. 5. Compliance Recommendations (Belab Services) Priority action Recommended deadline Mapping PFAS inventories and determining residual PFOS levels by LC‑MS/MS (LOQ ≤ 5 µg kg⁻¹) < Q3‑2025 Negotiate contractual clauses on < 0.025 mg kg⁻¹ with suppliers of fluorinated raw materials Immediate Replace PFOS-based mist suppressants and update environmental permits Before Q4‑2025 Review REACH declarations and safety data sheets to reflect the new UTC limits After publication in DOUE Establish control analysis on reception and on finished product according to EN 17308:2021 Continuous Conclusions The updated UTC values for PFOS mark a decisive step in European PFAS reduction policy, aligning the limits with those already applicable to PFOA and incentivizing the adoption of low-impact alternatives. Companies that manage residual PFOS have less than a year to re-evaluate their processes, demonstrate analytical compliance, and, where appropriate, implement substitutions. Continued monitoring of new delegated acts on other PFAS will be essential to maintain competitiveness and regulatory compliance. Official references European Commission. C(2025) 2189 final – Delegated Regulation amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 as regards PFOS (adoption 14 April 2025). EUR-Lex European Commission. Initiative sheet Ares(2023)8264517 – Persistent organic pollutants – Annex I amendment (public consultation December 2023). EUR-Lex European Parliament and Council. Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 on persistent organic pollutants (consolidated version 17‑Oct‑2024) . EUR-Lex Contact a European cosmetics regulation expert.

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has published its Community Rolling Action Plan (CoRAP) for the period 2025-2027, identifying 28 substances for evaluation due to potential risks to human health or the environment. This plan assigns Member States the responsibility of carrying out such assessments in the coming years. Table of contents Introduction Selection Criteria and Evaluation Process Substances Scheduled for Evaluation Implications for Registrants Conclusion ECHA Publishes CoRAP 2025-2027: Prioritizing chemical safety Introduction The CoRAP is an essential tool within the framework of the REACH Regulation , which seeks to ensure the safe use of chemicals within the European Union. This plan prioritizes substances that require detailed assessment to address concerns related to their manufacture or use. Selection Criteria and Evaluation Process The selection of substances for CoRAP is based on risk criteria that include: Hazard information: Persistence, bioaccumulation and toxicity (PBT). Endocrine disruption. Carcinogenicity, mutagenicity and reproductive toxicity (CMR). Exhibition information: Patterns of use and exposure potential. Total volumes recorded. These criteria combine hazard and exposure aspects to provide a risk-based approach. Member States can propose substances for inclusion in the CoRAP, and ECHA updates the plan annually every March. Substances Scheduled for Evaluation By 2025, eight substances are scheduled for evaluation , while the remaining 20 are planned for 2026 and 2027. The full list of these substances, along with the Member States responsible for their evaluation and the associated initial concerns, is available on ECHA's website. Implications for Registrants Companies that have registered these substances are urged to update their dossiers with relevant information, including data on hazards, volumes, uses, and exposure. This is essential to facilitate the evaluation process and ensure safe handling of these substances. Conclusion The publication of the CoRAP 2025-2027 underlines the continued commitment of ECHA and Member States to assessing and managing risks associated with chemical substances, with the aim of protecting public health and the environment in the European Union. Contact a Cosmetic Regulatory Expert

The Patch Test is a fundamental dermatological test for evaluating the safety of cosmetic products when they come into contact with the skin. This procedure, widely used in the cosmetics industry, allows for the controlled and safe identification of potential irritating or sensitizing reactions that a cosmetic formula may cause under normal use. Table of contents Why is a Patch Test performed? Patch Test: How is it performed? Why is Patch Testing important? Get your Patch Test with BELAB Services What is a Patch Test for Cosmetic Products and Why is it Important? Why is a Patch Test performed? European cosmetics legislation, under Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 , establishes that all cosmetic products must be safe for human health when used under normal or foreseeable conditions of use. To demonstrate this safety, especially for products intended to be in direct and prolonged contact with the skin, the Patch Test is one of the most widely used and recognized tests. A cosmetic that causes irritation, redness, or allergic reactions can compromise both the consumer's health and the brand's reputation. The Patch Test allows: Assess skin tolerance: Verify that the product does not cause skin irritation or sensitization. Detect adverse reactions: Allows observation of possible skin responses before marketing. Comply with regulatory requirements: Their results are usually included in the cosmetic safety dossier (CSF), within the toxicological evaluation section. Patch Test: How is it performed? Although there are different methodologies , the usual Patch Test procedure follows standardized protocols and is performed under dermatological supervision. Usual process: Volunteer Selection: A group of people (usually between 20 and 50) is selected, representing the potential users of the product. The trials are conducted with the express consent of the participants and under ethical criteria. Product application: A small amount of the cosmetic is placed on cotton pads or occlusive patches, which are placed on sensitive areas of the skin (usually the upper back or forearm). Exposure period: The patches remain in contact with the skin for 24 to 48 hours, preventing moisture or sweat from interfering with the results. Dermatological evaluation: Once the patch is removed, a specialist examines the skin for signs of irritation, redness, itching, or any other visible changes. In some cases, additional evaluations are performed after 72 hours to detect possible delayed reactions. Interpretation of results: The observed reactions are classified according to international dermatological scales (e.g., the ICDRG scale) and the skin tolerance of the product is determined. Why is Patch Testing important? Performing a patch test correctly not only guarantees consumer safety, but also reinforces product quality and protects the brand's image against claims or dermatological problems. Furthermore, having a Patch Test included in the Product Information File (PIF) demonstrates a genuine commitment to good manufacturing practices and user health. Do you want to perform a patch test for your cosmetic product? At Belab Services, we help you manage and coordinate these types of tests with accredited laboratories and dermatological specialists. Contact us and ensure the safety and success of your cosmetic.

FDA: Update on OMUFA Rates for 2025 The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently published new fees that must be paid by food production facilities. over-the-counter (OTC) drugs under the Monograph User Fee Program (OMUFA) for fiscal year 2025. These amounts apply starting October 1, 2024, and will remain in effect until September 30, 2025. According to the official notice in the Federal Register, the fee for facilities classified as Monograph Drug Facilities (MDF) will be $37,556, while those registered as Contract Manufacturing Organizations (CMOs) will be required to pay $25,037. The payment deadline is June 2, 2025. This adjustment reflects the methodology established by the FDA, which considers factors such as the number of manufacturers required to pay, the ratio of MDF to CMO, and inflation increases. For those seeking more details on the payment procedures and calculation methods, information is available in the official announcement and on the FDA website dedicated to the OMUFA program. Keeping up with these fees is essential for businesses to continue operating in compliance with regulations. If your organization produces over-the-counter products, review how much you'll be required to pay and make sure you meet deadlines to avoid setbacks. Contact a US Agent today.

On February 20, 2025, the California State Legislature introduced Assembly Bill No. 1148, known as the “Safer Food Packing Act of 2025.” Table of contents Proposed effective date Context and background Objective and scope Official and updated sources Proposed effective date If the law is passed, the restriction is expected to take effect on January 1, 2027. Context and background This bill deepens California's efforts to protect public health and the environment. A relevant precedent is Assembly Bill No. 1200 , effective January 1, 2023, which prohibits the use of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in food packaging. With AB 1148, the regulation would go further, covering an additional group of chemicals that are of concern due to their potential health risks. Objective and scope Safeguarding the health of the population : By reducing exposure to potentially toxic substances present in packaging, the aim is to mitigate adverse effects on consumers. Promote safer packaging : Food companies will have to adapt their materials and processes to comply with new legal requirements. Unify surveillance criteria : The law establishes clear and progressive economic sanctions for those who violate the regulations, contributing to their proper implementation. Official and updated sources California State Legislature: Available to review the full content of AB 1148 and learn about its legislative evolution. California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) : Provides information on regulation and analysis of chemicals in consumer products. In short, the Safer Food Packing Act of 2025 reinforces California's policy of limiting or eliminating harmful chemicals in everyday items, encouraging the industry to develop safer and more sustainable packaging solutions. Contact a Cosmetics Regulatory Expert today.

The Challenge Test is an essential microbiological analysis to ensure the safety of a cosmetic product throughout its shelf life. According to ISO 11930:2019, this procedure involves exposing the cosmetic formula to a series of specific microorganisms to evaluate the effectiveness of its preservative system. Table of contents Why is a Challenge Test conducted? Challenge Test: How is it carried out? Get a Challenge Test What is a Challenge Test for Cosmetic Products and Why is it Important? Why is a Challenge Test conducted? According to the Technical Guidelines published by the European Commission on the assessment of cosmetic safety, every manufacturer must demonstrate that their product remains stable and safe during normal use. A cosmetic contaminated with microorganisms can cause skin irritation, infections, or adverse reactions. The Challenge Test allows Verify the effectiveness of preservatives : Confirm whether the preservative system stops the growth of microorganisms. Ensure microbiological stability : Ensures that the product remains free from contamination throughout its life cycle. Comply with legal regulations : This is an essential requirement within the product information file (PIF), as indicated in Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 . Challenge Test: How is it carried out? Although details may vary depending on the type of product and the exact methodology applied, ISO 11930:2019 describes the procedure in a standardized manner: Selection of microorganisms : Reference strains recommended by official organizations are usually used (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus , Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Escherichia coli , Candida albicans and Aspergillus brasiliensis ). Product inoculation : A known quantity of each microorganism is intentionally introduced into the cosmetic sample. Incubation period : The product is stored under controlled conditions (temperature and humidity) for 28 days to allow for possible proliferation of microbes. Periodic measurement : At established intervals, a sample is taken and it is determined whether the population of microorganisms has effectively decreased or has remained within safe levels. Interpretation of results : Final microorganism counts are compared with the reduction thresholds required by ISO 11930 to confirm the suitability of the preservative system. Ultimately, the Challenge Test is not just a regulatory requirement, but a key tool for delivering high-quality, safe cosmetic products that remain stable throughout their shelf life. Ensuring this is done correctly, following the guidelines of ISO 11930 and current European legislation, is essential to guaranteeing consumer trust and the brand's reputation. Contact a cosmetic regulatory expert today.

Brussels, March 14, 2025 – The European Commission has announced the update of the glossary of cosmetic ingredients, in compliance with Regulation (EC) 1223/2009, with the aim of strengthening labeling transparency and ensuring consumer safety throughout the European Union. Table of contents What does this update entail? Legal basis and key deadlines Impact on industry and consumers How does it affect consumers? La Unión Europea Actualiza El Glosario de Ingredientes Cosméticos What does this update entail? The glossary revision aims to standardize the naming of ingredients in cosmetic products, ensuring that consumers can interpret the information more clearly. This measure responds to the need to improve communication between manufacturers, regulatory authorities, and consumers. Legal basis and key deadlines Regulation: Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 on cosmetic products. Proposal adopted: Second quarter of 2025. Entry into force: 20 days after publication in the Official Journal of the EU (OJEU). Public comment period: 60 days for interested parties to submit comments. Impact on industry and consumers The updated glossary of ingredients does not change the composition of products, but it will improve consistency in their identification across all EU countries, benefiting both manufacturers and consumers seeking accurate information about what they are applying to their skin. How does it affect consumers? Easier to identify ingredients in cosmetic products. Transparency in product formulation. Strengthening security and confidence in the European market. Public Consultation: The Commission invites industry, consumers, and stakeholders to submit comments within the 60-day consultation period to ensure that the glossary update reflects the needs of the industry and the public. This initiative reaffirms the EU's commitment to consumer safety and transparency in the cosmetics industry. Contact an expert in cosmetic regulation

Ensuring your cosmetic products meet Canadian labeling requirements remains critical to legal compliance and consumer confidence. In 2025, Health Canada continues to strengthen its regulations to ensure greater transparency and safety in the sector. Proper labeling not only avoids penalties but also strengthens brand credibility in a highly competitive market. In this updated guide, we'll explore the key elements of cosmetics labeling in Canada, the most common mistakes, and best practices for keeping up with regulatory changes in 2025. Table of contents Importance of Labeling Standards Key Elements of Cosmetic Labeling in 2025 Regulatory Oversight in 2025 Common Labeling Mistakes and How to Avoid Them Outlook for 2025: Tighter Regulations and Sustainability Conclusion Overview of Canada's Cosmetic Labeling Regulations for 2025 Importance of Labeling Standards Labeling regulations aim to provide clear information about the nature and composition of cosmetic products, enabling consumers to make informed and safe decisions. Failure to comply with these rules may result in penalties such as: Product recalls Economic fines Damage to the brand's reputation Key Elements of Cosmetic Labeling in 2025 It is essential that manufacturers and distributors constantly update their labels to align with new Health Canada standards. 1. Mandatory Bilingual Presentation All relevant labeling content must appear in English and French , including: Product name Instructions for use Warnings and precautions List of ingredients This measure reflects Canada's linguistic diversity and facilitates consumer understanding . 2. Transparency in Ingredients Ingredients must be listed with their INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) names in descending order of concentration. Additionally, in 2025, Health Canada tightened controls on certain ingredients, requiring manufacturers to be more thorough in identifying components that may cause allergies or sensitization. 3. Net Amount Clearly Indicated The net quantity of the product must be displayed visibly on the label, expressed in metric units ( grams or milliliters ). This requirement ensures transparency regarding the quantity of product offered and helps manage consumer expectations. 4. Manufacturer and/or Distributor Data Every label must include: Name of the responsible company Updated address Contact information This data is essential for product traceability and for consumers to be able to ask questions or file complaints. 5. Enhanced Warnings and Precautions With the new regulations, Health Canada requires more detailed warnings on products with specific ingredients, such as: Ingredients with allergenic potential Products not recommended for certain skin types Instructions for safe storage This approach helps reduce risks for consumers and encourages more responsible use of products. Regulatory Oversight in 2025 Health Canada maintains strict oversight of cosmetic labeling and conducts periodic inspections to verify compliance. Manufacturers must continue to notify Health Canada of their products using the Cosmetic Notification Form (CNF) and undergo safety assessments to ensure their formulas do not pose a health risk. Common Labeling Mistakes and How to Avoid Them Lack of bilingual information → Make sure to include everything in English and French Incorrect use of ingredient names → Use the official INCI nomenclature. Incomplete manufacturer data → Always include name, address and contact information Inaccurate net amount → Express the amount correctly in metric units. Outlook for 2025: Tighter Regulations and Sustainability This year, Health Canada is strengthening its focus on consumer safety and transparency. Some key trends include: More detailed labeling on allergens and potential risks Increased pressure to reduce the use of questionable substances Emphasis on sustainability and reducing environmental impact Brands that proactively adapt their labels will be better positioned in a market where consumers demand greater clarity and commitment to safety. Conclusion Complying with cosmetic labeling regulations in Canada is not only a legal requirement, but a key strategy for building consumer confidence and avoiding penalties. If you need help with compliance with these regulations In 2025, Belab Services offers specialized advice on cosmetic regulations in Canada. Ensure product compliance and protect your brand with up-to-date, transparent labeling. Contact a cosmetic regulatory expert

European Commission announces first review of Regulation 1223/2009 in a decade Revision of Regulation 1223/2009 The European Commission has officially announced the first revision of Regulation 1223/2009, which governs cosmetic products, in ten years. This update marks an important milestone, as it aims to modernize and improve the safety framework for cosmetics across Europe. Revision of Regulation 1223/2009: Key Changes Planned • Enhanced safety standards: Safety assessments will be updated to address emerging ingredients and technologies, including nanomaterials and microplastics, ensuring that all products meet current scientific standards. • Stricter controls on ingredients: The review is expected to update the lists of prohibited and restricted substances, reflecting new scientific knowledge about the potential risks associated with certain compounds. • Improved labeling and transparency: New product labeling and ingredient traceability requirements will provide consumers with clearer and more complete information. • Environmental and sustainability measures: The updated regulation is likely to include provisions to promote environmentally friendly practices, encouraging the use of sustainable ingredients, and reducing the environmental impact of cosmetic products. • Simplified compliance: Strengthened enforcement mechanisms and clearer guidelines for manufacturers will be introduced to simplify compliance without compromising high safety standards. This review not only strengthens consumer protection, but also supports innovation within the cosmetics industry. by aligning regulatory measures with modern scientific developments and market trends. The Commission's initiative is designed to ensure that Europe remains at the forefront of cosmetic safety and sustainability. Contact a cosmetic regulatory expert

New PFAS Restriction in Cosmetics: A Challenge for Industry and Sustainability France has announced a new restriction on the use of PFAS in cosmetics, which will take effect in 2026. These substances are primarily used in waterproof products—such as foundations, lipsticks, and sunscreens—to provide waterproofing properties and improve durability, although their persistence and potential risks have raised environmental and health concerns. The new regulation will affect all products containing PFAS and anticipates possible European-level restrictions. Manufacturers will have a transition period, following its entry into force, to update their formulas and comply with the new concentration limits. This measure reaffirms France's commitment to public health and environmental sustainability, but it also poses a challenge to European Union legislators, the single market, and the entire cosmetics industry. Contact an expert in cosmetic regulation