How does the EU regulate cosmetic ingredients?
The European Union regulates cosmetics primarily through the Cosmetics Regulation. This framework ensures the safety of cosmetic products placed on the EU market. The Responsible Person must ensure compliance before market entry. Annexes II–VI list prohibited, restricted, and permitted substances for specific uses.
Key regulatory lists
- Annex IIProhibited SubstancesMust not form part of the composition.
- Annex IIIRestricted SubstancesAllowed only under specified conditions.
- Annex IVColorantsPermitted colorants with specific conditions.
- Annex VPreservativesPermitted preservatives with maximum concentrations.
- Annex VIUV FiltersPermitted UV filters for sun protection products.
Need ingredient-level detail?
Search the CosmiComply database for your selected region, or run a full ingredient list check.