China continues to strengthen its regulatory framework for sunscreen cosmetics through a series of new technical and testing requirements. Recent measures issued by the National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), together with updated toxicological testing rules that became mandatory in July 2026, signal a continued shift toward a more science-based and evidence-driven approach...
California is preparing to introduce another significant change to its cosmetics legislation. Beginning 1 January 2027, new restrictions established under Assembly Bill 60 (AB 60), known as the Musk Reduction Act, will become enforceable. The legislation expands the state’s existing cosmetic safety framework by prohibiting additional fragrance ingredients and introducing concentration limits for others. California...
The European Union is preparing another significant update to its cosmetic ingredient rules. On 8 July 2026, the European Commission notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of a draft amendment to Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products. Commonly referred to as Omnibus Act IX, the proposal introduces new prohibited substances, updates restrictions for several...
Environmental language has become increasingly common in the cosmetics industry. Terms such as “green”, “eco-friendly”, “climate neutral” and “environmentally friendly” are now widely used on packaging, websites and advertising campaigns across the European market. However, the way these claims are communicated is changing across the European Union. Directive (EU) 2024/825, known as the Empowering Consumers...
Wet wipes present a particular environmental challenge because their appearance and use can lead consumers to treat them in the same way as toilet paper. However, many wipes do not break apart rapidly in wastewater systems. Depending on their construction, wipes may contain synthetic fibres such as polyester or polypropylene. When incorrectly flushed, these materials...
The United States has taken a significant step toward modernizing its sunscreen framework with the authorization of a new ultraviolet (UV) filter for over-the-counter sunscreen products. The decision marks the first addition of a new sunscreen active ingredient to the country’s regulatory system in more than two decades, a development closely watched by cosmetic manufacturers,...
Japan has reminded cosmetic companies of the importance of providing clear allergy warnings on hair cosmetics containing henna or henna-derived ingredients. The action follows reports of serious allergic reactions linked to certain hair coloring products and highlights the country’s continued focus on consumer safety and product labeling. Although the requirements themselves are not entirely new,...
The European cosmetics industry is approaching an important regulatory milestone. On 31 July 2026, the transition period established under Commission Regulation (EU) 2022/1181 comes to an end. From this date onwards, cosmetic products containing formaldehyde-releasing preservatives must fully comply with the updated labelling requirements, or they can no longer remain available on the EU market....
Powder cleansers have become an increasingly popular format within the waterless cosmetics movement. Unlike traditional liquid cleansers, they are supplied as dry powders that are mixed with water immediately before use to create a foam, paste, or creamy cleanser. Their growing popularity is driven by several factors, including reduced packaging, improved product stability, lower transport...
The growing international popularity of Korean skincare has placed Korean sunscreens firmly in the spotlight. Their lightweight textures and elegant finishes have led many consumers to believe they outperform European alternatives. From a regulatory perspective, however, the picture is more nuanced. Both the European Union and South Korea apply robust regulatory controls to sunscreens, although...
