several new cosmetic labelling regulations take effect in 2026, impacting businesses in the European Union, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Canada, and the United States. The requirements extend to both formulation and label content. Early preparation is crucial for brands aiming to launch or continue selling cosmetic products in these markets.
European Union – new Rules for Cosmetic Labels from July 2026
Upcoming regulatory changes in the EU will bring changes for cosmetic labelling compliance. A major update requires the disclosure of 56 extra fragrance allergens. These must be named individually on the ingredient list.
Starting 31 July 2026, all listed fragrance allergens present above certain levels must be declared on packaging:
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0.001% for products left on the skin
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0.01% for products rinsed after use
mandatory Formaldehyde Warnings
On the same date, stricter rules will address products containing ingredients that release formaldehyde. This affects what must be shown on cosmetic packaging.
If a cosmetic item includes preservatives that emit formaldehyde, it must clearly state:
“Releases formaldehyde”
Brands will need this warning when the formaldehyde released is above 0.001% (10 ppm) in the finished product. The requirement applies even if more than one formaldehyde-releasing compound is used.
Additional Warnings Under EU law
Extra labelling notices are required due to Omnibus act VIII, effective from May 2026. These warnings must be visible on the packaging in some cases.
One such requirement concerns substances listed in Annex V such as:
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Biphenyl-2-ol / 2-Phenylphenol / 2-Hydroxybiphenyl (o-Phenylphenol) (CAS 90-43-7)
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Sodium 2-Biphenylolate / Sodium o-Phenylphenate (CAS 132-27-4)
Cosmetic products with these ingredients must feature an advisory on their labels stating:
“Avoid contact with eyes.”
United Kingdom – Formaldehyde Disclosure Required
In the UK, any finished cosmetic product sold after 15 July 2026 containing formaldehyde-releasing substances must show the warning:
“releases formaldehyde”
This guidance mirrors the European Union’s updated labelling laws.
Canada - Phased Approach to Fragrance allergen Labelling
Canadian regulatory authorities are implementing fragrance allergen disclosure similar to the rules in the European Union.the rollout occurs in stages.
Starting 12 April 2026, cosmetic items-whether newly produced or already available-must list 24 fragrance allergens, based on the original EU list, when present above these amounts:
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0.01% in rinse-off formulas
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0.001% in products left on
