As of March 1, 2022, two common cosmetic ingredients are banned for use in the EU. They are Butylphenyl Methylpropional (Lilial) and Zinc pyrithione.
Omnibus Act IV
On November 3, 2021, the European Commission published the Omnibus Act IV (Regulation (EU) 2021/1902) that foresees the prohibition of 23 cosmetic ingredients. Among them there are Lilial and Zinc pyrithione.
The bans apply as of March 1, 2022. As of that date, cosmetics that contain these ingredients:
– Cannot be placed on the EU market anymore;
– Must be removed from shelves if already on the EU market.
The European Commission has prohibited these ingredients because they were classified as CMR substances in the 15th Adaptation to Technical Progress (ATP)*. In particular, Lilial and Zinc pyrithione have been identified as CMR of category 1B. They are presumed to be toxic for reproduction based on animal studies.
The bans in GB and NI
In Northern Ireland, where the EU Cosmetics Regulation fully applies, Lilial, Zinc pyrithione, and the other ingredients are prohibited for use as of March 1, 2022.
On the other hand, in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) the EU bans and restrictions on cosmetic substances do not immediately apply. However, the UK Government followed the EU and banned those ingredients in cosmetic products as of October 15, 2022.
What to expect?
The CLP Regulation is updated regularly. In light of this, Omnibus Acts are continuously adopted as well. In September 2022, the European Commission published the Omnibus Act V applicable as of December 2022, and, in July 2023, it published Omnibus Act VI applicable as of December 1, 2023.
*. The ATP is the act by which the European Commission updates the CMR substances listed in the CLP Regulation.
Do you want to remain updated on regulatory changes? Do you want to be sure your products do not contain any banned substances? Do you need guidance with regulatory requirements for cosmetic products in the European Union, United Kingdom, or United States?
Check Obelis one-stop solution for regulatory compliance: from laboratory tests and safety assessment to pre-market notification. With 35 years of experience in the business, we will be at your side along the process and help you enter the EU and UK markets.
Contact us today to find out how we can help you.
Francesca SANTACATTERINA
Publishing Department
23/03/2022
Updated on 25/08/2023