New Cosmetic Regulations Set to Tighten Safety Standards for Popular Sunscreen Ingredient

In an important move for consumer safety, the UK government has announced changes to the Cosmetic Products (Restriction of Chemical Substances) Regulations, specifically targeting the use of benzophenone-3, a common UV filter in cosmetics. These regulations will come into effect in 2025, following scientific assessments that suggest a need for stricter controls to ensure public health.

What’s Changing?

The regulation focuses on benzophenone-3, known for its role in protecting skin from harmful UV rays. Previously, this ingredient was permitted up to a concentration of 6% in various cosmetic products. However, new findings from the Scientific Advisory Group on Chemical Safety (SAG-CS) indicate potential health risks at these levels. As a result, the government has decided to implement stricter concentration limits:

• Face, Hand, and Lip Products: The 6% limit remains, but only for select items like creams and lip products, excluding sprays.
• Body Products: A new cap of 2.2% is introduced for general skin products, including sprays.
• Other Cosmetics: An even lower limit of 0.5% is set for all other cosmetic items.

Transition Period for Industry

To ease the transition, businesses have until January 21, 2026, to adapt their products to these new standards. Products already on the market by this date can be sold until July 21, 2026. This phased approach aims to give manufacturers adequate time to reformulate products and update labels.

Aligning with European Standards

This regulatory update will align Great Britain’s policies with those of Northern Ireland and the EU, ensuring a consistent safety standard across regions following the UK's exit from the EU. The changes reflect the government's commitment to maintaining high safety standards while adapting to new scientific data.

Consultation and Business Impact

Although a formal consultation was not conducted, the Department for Business and Trade engaged with industry stakeholders and trade associations. The anticipated impact on businesses is minimal, focusing mainly on reformulation and labeling costs without disproportionally affecting small enterprises.

Ongoing Safety Monitoring

The government has underscored its commitment to continuous monitoring and updating of the regulatory framework to ensure the safety of cosmetic products on the market.

For further information or queries, stakeholders can contact Will Burrows at the Department for Business and Trade.