Global Cosmetics Regulatory Update – May 2026
Bycheermax
ASIA
China Issues New Import Cosmetics Inspection and Quarantine Rules, Effective December 2026
On May 6, 2026, China’s GACC issued Order No. 284 on inspection and quarantine of imported and exported cosmetics, effective December 1, 2026, with over seven months’ transition for compliance preparation.
China Incorporates Three Revised Cosmetic Standards into STSC (2015 Edition)
On May 15, 2026, China’s NMPA incorporated three revised standards into the Safety and Technical Standards for Cosmetics (2015 Edition). New requirements for Biphenyl-2-ol salts and Acid Violet 43 (CI 60730) will apply from June 1, 2028.
China Rejects 40 Batches of Imported Cosmetics Due to Labeling Issues
On May 18, 2026, China’s GACC reported that 40 batches of imported cosmetics were denied entry in April 2026, including brands such as Shu Uemura, SkinCeuticals, and Yves Saint Laurent, mainly due to labeling non-compliance.
China Adds Eight Cosmetic Testing Methods to STSC (2015 Edition)
On May 29, 2026, China’s NMPA issued Announcement No. 51 of 2026, adding eight testing methods to the Safety and Technical Standards for Cosmetics (2015 Edition). NIFDC also published a supporting Q&A explanation.
South Korea Tightens Controls on Counterfeit Cosmetics via E-Commerce
On May 12, 2026, South Korea’s MFDS, KIPO, and KCS announced strengthened inspections on counterfeit cosmetics imported via overseas e-commerce. Annual checks will expand to 1,200 cases, targeting harmful substances and trademark infringement.
South Korea Strengthens Cosmetics Reporting Rules
On May 13, 2026, South Korea’s MFDS implemented revised rules on cosmetics production, import records, and ingredient reporting, enhancing enforcement against non-compliant companies and introducing incentives for high compliance.
Thailand Updates Regulatory Requirements for Piperonal in Cosmetics
On May 21, 2026, Thailand’s MOPH updated regulatory requirements for Piperonal (CAS No. 120-57-0) in cosmetics. The ingredient is permitted in all product categories with a maximum concentration of 1% in finished products.
In addition, Piperonal content in raw materials must not exceed 10%, and its use is restricted to fragrance or skin-conditioning functions only.
Thailand Restricts Microneedle Cosmetics
On May 21, 2026, Thailand’s MOPH banned cosmetics containing microneedle structures or skin-penetrating crystalline ingredients from production, import, and sale.
Dissolvable microneedle patches for facial or body care (≤100 μm) are permitted only for export, not domestic sale. They must also carry warning labels, including cautions for children under 15, sensitive skin users, and those with inflamed or damaged skin due to potential irritation risks.
EU
SCCS Preliminary Opinion: Acetophenone Considered Safe in Cosmetics at ≤100 ppm
On May 4, 2026, the EU SCCS issued a preliminary opinion stating that Acetophenone is safe as part of Natural Complex Substances (NCS) in cosmetics at up to 100 ppm (0.01%), considering overall exposure from non-cosmetic sources. Public consultation runs until July 6, 2026. The assessment applies only to Acetophenone, not the full NCS.
EU Updates Cosmetics Regulation with New Ingredient Restrictions
On April 27, 2026, the EU issued Regulation (EU) 2026/909, amending Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, which took effect on May 18, 2026.
The update revises requirements for multiple substances, including fragrance allergens, preservatives, UV filters, hair dye ingredients, and certain metal compounds.
EU Omnibus VIII Takes Effect, Adding 18 CMR Substances to Restrictions
On May 1, 2026, EU Regulation (EU) 2026/78 (Omnibus Act VIII) took effect, updating CMR substance rules under Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009.
The amendment updates annexes on banned and restricted substances, colorants, and preservatives, requiring non-compliant products to be removed from the EU market.