What’s new?
On 21 May 2025, SAG-CS published three opinions addressing key cosmetic ingredient safety concerns in the UK market. These replace EU SCCS reliance post-Brexit, covering formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, UV filter Homosalate assessment, and 4-MBC safety evaluation following industry data calls.
Formaldehyde-Releasing Substances
- Current 0.05% labeling threshold insufficient for consumer protection
- New recommended threshold: 0.001% (10 ppm) for both leave-on and rinse-off products (aligning with EU requirement)
- Affects DMDM Hydantoin, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Diazolidinyl Urea, and other Annex V preservatives
Homosalate Safety Confirmed
- Safe at 10% maximum concentration in sunscreen products
4-MBC Safety Concerns
- Cannot conclude safety for cosmetic use
- Exhibits endocrine disrupting properties in vivo
What now?
- 3-6 months: Expected OPSS consultation on regulatory amendments
- 6-12 months: Potential UK Cosmetics Regulation updates
References
SAG-CS Opinion 16: Formaldehyde Releasing Substances, June 2024 (Updated May 2025)
SAG-CS Opinion 17: Homosalate use in cosmetic products, March 2025
SAG-CS Opinion 18: 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor as a UV Filter, March 2025