EU Proposes cosmetics regulation amendment: 15 CMR substances to be banned and annexes III-V to be revised

Abstract

On May 21, 2025, the European Union notified the WTO (G/TBT/N/EU/1140) of its proposal to amend the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. The amendment seeks to add 15 substances classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction (CMR) to Annex II (List of Prohibited Substances). It also proposes updates to Annex III (List of Restricted Substances), Annex IV (List of Permitted Colorants), and Annex V (List of Permitted Preservatives). The regulation will take effect 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union and will apply from May 1, 2026.