11.03.14
The European Commission (EC) adopted two measures restricting the use of three preservatives in cosmetic products. With the adopted measures, the EC limits the maximum concentration of two preservatives—propylparaben and butylparaben—from currently allowed limit of 0.4% when used individually and 0.8% when mixed with other esters, to 0.14%, when used individually or together. They are being banned from leave-on products designed for diapering needs. The new rules will apply for products put on shelves after April 16, 2015.
Secondly, EC banned the mixture of methylchloroisothiazolinone (and) methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) from leave-on products such as body creams. The measure is aimed at reducing the risk from and the incidence of skin allergies. The preservative can still be used in rinse-off products such as shampoos and shower gels at a maximum concentration of 0.0015% of a mixture in the ratio 3:1 of MCI/MI. The measure will apply for products placed on the market after July 16, 2015.
The EC decision followed an assessment by the independent Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), an advisory body that carried out a careful risk assessment of the substances before recommending their restriction or ban.
“We have shown once again that the safety of consumers is paramount in every decision we take. Preservatives in cosmetics serve a valuable function ensuring that the products we use on a daily basis are free from pathogens. We need however to ensure that the preservatives guarantee the maximum degree of protection. With these measures consumers can be reassured that their cosmetics are safe,” said the European Commissioner for Consumer Policy Neven Mimica in a statement.
Secondly, EC banned the mixture of methylchloroisothiazolinone (and) methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) from leave-on products such as body creams. The measure is aimed at reducing the risk from and the incidence of skin allergies. The preservative can still be used in rinse-off products such as shampoos and shower gels at a maximum concentration of 0.0015% of a mixture in the ratio 3:1 of MCI/MI. The measure will apply for products placed on the market after July 16, 2015.
The EC decision followed an assessment by the independent Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), an advisory body that carried out a careful risk assessment of the substances before recommending their restriction or ban.
“We have shown once again that the safety of consumers is paramount in every decision we take. Preservatives in cosmetics serve a valuable function ensuring that the products we use on a daily basis are free from pathogens. We need however to ensure that the preservatives guarantee the maximum degree of protection. With these measures consumers can be reassured that their cosmetics are safe,” said the European Commissioner for Consumer Policy Neven Mimica in a statement.