Global Cosmetics Regulatory Update – July 2026

APAC

China Proposes Cosmetic Standard for Ethyl Butylacetylaminopropionate

On July 7, 2026, China’s NMPA proposed developing a cosmetic standard for Ethyl Butylacetylaminopropionate.

In China, the ingredient is regulated for both cosmetic use in daily chemical products and use as an active ingredient in mosquito-repellent pesticides.

China Expands Second-Phase Personalized Cosmetics Pilot to 8 New Regions

On July 10, 2026, China’s NMPA announced the expansion of the second-phase personalized cosmetics pilot program.

From August 1, 2026, 8 additional regions will join the pilot, including Liaoning, Jiangsu, Anhui, Fujian, Jiangxi, Hubei, Sichuan, and Xinjiang.

The pilot will run until September 30, 2027.

China Rejects 11 Batches of Cosmetics Due to Labeling Issues

On July 16, 2026, China’s GACC released the list of cosmetics denied entry in June 2026.

A total of 11 non-compliant cosmetic batches were rejected, with 10 batches due to labeling issues and 1 batch due to excessive microbial counts.

China Proposes New Cosmetic Microbiological and Ingredient Testing Methods

On July 21, 2026, the NIFDC issued a notice seeking public comments on two draft cosmetic testing standards, with comments due by August 30, 2026.

The proposed standards cover methods for detecting Pseudomonas aeruginosa and determining ethanol and 39 other ingredients in cosmetics.

Hong Kong Customs Warns Against Collagen Cream Containing Banned Sudan Red

On July 24, 2026, Hong Kong Customs warned consumers to stop using a collagen cream found to contain Sudan Red and instructed retailers to remove it from sale.

The product may violate cosmetic safety and labeling requirements due to the banned substance and lack of Chinese warning information.

South Korea Launches Cosmetics Safety Assessment Support Website

On July 1, 2026, South Korea’s MFDS launched the Cosmetics Safety Assessment Support website to help companies prepare for the new safety assessment system.

The system will be introduced in phases from 2028, requiring companies to demonstrate cosmetic product safety under intended conditions of use.

South Korea Advances Cosmetics Safety Assessment System

On July 8, 2026, South Korea’s MFDS announced amendments to the Cosmetics Act and implementation standards for the safety assessment system.

The new framework will strengthen safety management through a safety information center, improved information systems, and safety assessment requirements, with comments due by August 18, 2026.

Malaysia Updates Cosmetic Ingredient Requirements

On July 6, 2026, Malaysia’s NPRA issued Circular No. 2/2026, updating cosmetic ingredient requirements in line with the latest ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD).

The changes cover prohibited, restricted, colorant, and preservative ingredients, with stricter limits for Kojic Acid and Margosa Extract and new prohibited substances. A transition period applies until 2028 or 2029, depending on the ingredient.

Indonesia Proposes New Halal Compliance Requirements for Cosmetics

On July 23, 2026, Indonesia’s BPJPH submitted draft regulations on the Halal Product Assurance System (SJPH) to the WTO/TBT Committee.

The draft would require certified companies to maintain ongoing halal compliance and periodically submit ingredient, halal production process, and internal audit information. Comments are due by September 21, 2026.

Indonesia Proposes Stricter Halal Compliance for Imported Cosmetics

On July 30, 2026, Indonesia’s BPJPH released a draft regulation on halal compliance for imported products.

The draft would require imported halal-certified cosmetics to undergo document, halal certificate, and labeling checks before customs clearance, with importers required to obtain a Halal Product Assurance Report (LPPH). Comments are due by September 28, 2026.

Australia Requires AICIS Assessment Certificate for Retinal in Cosmetics

On July 14, 2026, AICIS announced stricter requirements for Retinal (CAS 116-31-4) used in consumer products, including cosmetics.

From June 27, 2026, Retinal can no longer be introduced under AICIS exemption or reporting categories. Companies must obtain an AICIS assessment certificate before introducing it into Australia.

The requirement does not apply to Retinol (CAS 68-26-8) and its esters listed on the AIIC.

EU

EU Proposes Updates to Cosmetic Ingredient Restrictions

On July 8, 2026, the EU proposed amendments to Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009.

The changes include new prohibited substances, updated restrictions on BHA, Butylparaben and CBD, and the removal of the exemption for mercury-containing preservatives. Comments are due by September 6, 2026.

EU Proposes Updated Requirements for Silver Powder

On July 30, 2026, the EU proposed updating the Silver Powder requirements under Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, based on the latest SCCS assessment.

The draft is expected to be adopted in Q4 2026, with comments due by September 28, 2026.

EU Updates Cosmetic Ingredient Name List

On July 10, 2025, the European Commission published Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/1175, updating the common ingredient name list and replacing (EU) 2022/677.

The new list applies from July 30, 2026, and companies should review and update ingredient names on cosmetic labels accordingly.

EU Updates Fragrance Allergen Labeling Requirements

From July 31, 2026, new cosmetic products placed on the EU market must comply with updated fragrance allergen labeling requirements.

The number of fragrance allergens requiring individual labeling has increased from 24 to 81. Products already placed on the market before this date may remain available until July 31, 2028.

Sweden Proposes PFAS Ban in Cosmetics from 2028

On July 23, 2026, the Swedish government proposed a PFAS ban covering cosmetics, clothing, footwear, and other consumer products.

The ban is expected to take effect on January 1, 2028, aiming to reduce PFAS emissions and promote safer alternatives.

America

US FDA Advances Cosmetic Regulatory Updates

On July 3, 2026, the FDA announced plans to advance two cosmetic regulations:

Restricting formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing substances in hair-smoothing products.

Introducing fragrance allergen labeling requirements under MoCRA.

Both proposals are expected to enter the proposed rule stage in November 2026.

Illinois Restricts PFAS and Other Harmful Substances in Cosmetics

On July 10, 2026, Illinois passed the Cosmetic Products Chemicals Act (HB 3409), effective July 1, 2028.

The law prohibits the intentional addition of PFAS, formaldehyde, mercury compounds, and other harmful substances to cosmetics, requiring companies to review formulas for compliance in advance.

Canada Updates Fragrance Allergen Labeling Requirements

From August 1, 2026, newly marketed cosmetics in Canada must label 81 fragrance allergens.Existing products must comply by August 1, 2028. Allergens exceeding 0.01% in