CosmeticOBS has addressed the subject on several occasions: Europe is working to change the regulations governing fragrance allergens present in cosmetic products. Of special note: more than 80 allergenic substances will have to be labelled in the list of ingredients. The change won’t be without practical difficulties for the cosmetics industry, which is launching an experiment with paper-free information.
It all began with an opinion published by the SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety) in late 2012. After having evaluated allergies to fragrances in cosmetic products, the experts are suggesting that four risk management measures be taken. The goal is both to limit consumer sensitisation and to help those who already know they are allergic to a specific substance to avoid it.
In its opinion, the SCCS therefore recommends:
• Prohibiting Hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde
• Prohibiting atranol and chloroatranol (present in tree moss, Evernia furfuracea, and oak moss, Evernia prunastri)
• Reducing the authorised concentration to 100 ppm (0.01%) for 11 fragrance allergens
• Broadening the scope of information available to consumers for approximately 90 allergens, when they are present at concentrations greater than 0.01% in rinse-off products and 0.001% in leave-on products.
The industry’s point of view
It comes as no surprise that those in the cosmetics industry have certain reserves regarding these measures.
Of particular importance is the fact that is difficult to comply with the established concentration thresholds since the available analysis methods are able to measure these thresholds for only 24 allergens.
Industry professionals are also concerned by the practical challenges posed by the requirement …
