In a recent industry update, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) reported adding nine chemicals to the hazardous candidate list, including one related to cosmetics. It also received proposals from five nations on restricting PFAS, and two intentions and 8 proposals to harmonize the classification and labeling of substances, three of which are relevant to cosmetics. Below is an overview.
See related: European Union Annuls Carcinogenic Titanium Dioxide Label
Melamine
Melanine (EC 203-615-4; CAS 108-78-1), with reported uses in polymers and resins, coating products, adhesives and sealants, leather treatment products and laboratory chemicals, has been added to the hazardous chemicals candidate list. The reasons cited for inclusion are: equivalent level of concern having probable serious effects to human health (Article 57 f – human health); and equivalent level of concern having probable serious effects to the environment (Article 57 f – environment).
Per the Personal Care Products Council online International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredient (wINCI) Dictionary, Melamine Copolymer (INCI: Polyoxymethylene Melamine) is used as a cosmetic film-former, while melamine peroxide has the reported function as an oxidizing agent.
PFAS Restrictions
Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden have submitted a proposal to the ECHA to restrict per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) under REACH. The ECHA will publish the detailed proposal, reportedly one of the broadest in the EU’s history, on Feb. 7, 2023. The proposed restrictions on their manufacture, use and placement on the market respond to concerns over their environmental exposure and accumulation, due to their water solubility and mobility, as well as potential toxicity to human health.
See related: U.S. House/Senate, President Biden Pass 2023 Consolidations Act; PCPC Applauds Cosmetics Inclusion
Classification and Labeling Proposals (CLP)
Silicon dioxide: An intention was submitted for silicon dioxide (CAS 7631-86-9) proposing its harmonized classification of: STOT RE1, H372 ("Danger"). [Specific target organ toxicity = STOT; repeated exposure = RE 1; H372 (lung, digestive system) (oral) = causes damage to organs (lung, digestive system) through prolonged or repeated exposure (oral)].
Potassium bromide: A proposal was submitted for potassium bromide (CAS7758-02-3) suggesting its harmonized classification of: Repr. 1B, H360FD (may damage fertility; suspected of damaging the unborn child); Lact., H362 (may cause harm to breast-fed children); STOT SE 3, H336 [respiratory tract irritation (sore throat, cough) and narcotic effects (dizziness, drowsiness)]; and STOT RE 1, H372 ("Danger").
Talc: Finally, a proposal was submitted for talc (CAS 14807-96-6) suggesting its harmonized classification: Carc. 2, H351 (suspected of causing cancer); and STOT RE 1, H372 ("Danger").
See related: 7 Implications of the Modernization Act for Cosmetics
