Navigating EU Cosmetics Compliance: Ingredient Bans, Trends, and Strategies

Watch our informative webinar on — “Navigating EU Cosmetics Compliance: Ingredient Bans, Trends, and Strategies”.

The cosmetics industry in Europe operates within one of the world’s most stringent regulatory frameworks, governed by the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 and complementary legislation such as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals). With growing consumer and regulatory emphasis on safety, sustainability, and transparency, manufacturers must continuously adapt formulations to comply with evolving restrictions on hazardous substances. Recent updates, including bans on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), endocrine disruptors, and microplastics, highlight the urgency for proactive compliance strategies.

Key Points Covered in the Webinar

EU Regulatory Framework

• Annex Prohibitions: In-depth analysis of ingredients that are currently banned, restricted, or expected to face regulatory actions under the EU Cosmetics Regulation (Annexes II, III, IV, etc.), including substances such as certain parabens, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor, etc along with the scientific rationale driving both existing and anticipated restrictions.
• REACH Restrictions: Overview of chemicals restricted under REACH, including substances such as certain phthalates (e.g., DEHP, DBP, BBP, DIBP), nickel compounds, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and other substances of very high concern (SVHCs), with a focus on their implications for cosmetic formulations.
• Allergen Labeling: Updates to Annex III requirements for numerous fragrance allergens and their impact on product labeling and consumer communication.

Emerging Regulatory Trends

• PFAS Phase-Out: The EU’s proposed ban on PFAS in cosmetics by 2025–2027 and strategies to transition to safer alternatives.
• Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability (CSS): Anticipated expansions to restricted substances, including endocrine disruptors and environmentally persistent chemicals.
• Microplastics Ban: Compliance with the EU’s 2023 restriction on intentionally added microplastics in rinse-off cosmetics and future extensions to leave-on products.

Formulation Strategies for Compliance

• Alternative Ingredient Sourcing: Evaluating and validating substitutes for banned substances (e.g., silicone alternatives, bio-based preservatives) while maintaining performance.
• Safety and Sustainability: Balancing regulatory compliance with consumer demand for clean, vegan, and eco-friendly formulations.
• New Ingredient Suitability: Assessing technical, market, and applicable fitness of new ingredients to replace banned ones.

Ingenious e-Brain, as a trusted consulting partner for cosmetics and consumer goods, equips manufacturers with tailored solutions to navigate Europe’s complex regulations. Our experts guide clients through ingredient substitution, regulatory gap analysis, and sustainability integration to ensure market readiness. Join us to future-proof your formulations and stay ahead in Europe’s dynamic regulatory environment.

Speakers

Thomas K. Buschulte

Director - BD (Europe)

Priya Singh

Consultant

Sanchita Singh

Consultant

The session was be led by – Thomas K. Buschulte (Director - BD Europe), Sanchita Singh (Consultant) and Priya Singh (Consultant) with a strong background in EU regulatory frameworks and compliance, alongside extensive technical expertise in formulation strategies.

Watch the full webinar recording to stay ahead of regulatory paradigm shifts and ensure your products are both compliant and consumer-friendly.

Submit the form to access the webinar recording!