Europe

EU

EU PPWR Takes Effect: The Compliance Lifeline for Cosmetics and Packaging Enterprises

The European Union Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (EU PPWR, Regulation (EU) 2025/40) became applicable on August 12, 2026. Regardless of packaging material, origin, or sector—whether from factories, retailers, or cosmetic brands—all packaging and pre-packaged products newly placed on the EU market must immediately fulfill mandatory compliance requirements. I. Immediate Regulatory Enforcement: Mandates Effective Today While certain long-term PPWR targets (such as recycled plastic ratios and recyclability performance grades) are subject to phased transition periods, the following core requirements are officially mandatory as of August 12, 2026: II. Cosmetics and Skincare Brands: Mandatory Compliance Obligations The scope of EU PPWR covers all packaging and pre-packaged goods across industrial, retail, office, and household distribution channels. For cosmetics and personal care brands, while cosmetic packaging may qualify under specific provisions as “contact-sensitive packaging” with tailored rules for certain aspects, cosmetic entities fall fully within the regulatory domain of PPWR. Cosmetics manufacturers must

EU PPWR Takes Effect: The Compliance Lifeline for Cosmetics and Packaging Enterprises Read More »

EU

Major Boost for Cosmetic Exports! EU Proposes Significant Relaxation on Silver Usage Limits, Raising Maximum Concentration up to 0.3%

On July 30, 2026, the European Union notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of the latest draft amendment to the EU Cosmetics Regulation. Based on the latest safety assessment from the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), the draft significantly relaxes restrictions and expands the permitted scope of micro-sized silver powder as both a restricted substance and a colorant in cosmetics, retroactive to May 1, 2026. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the core aspects of this regulatory update. For cosmetic enterprises targeting the European market, regulatory compliance for “Silver” has reached a major positive turning point. On July 30, 2026, the European Commission formally submitted a notification to the WTO proposing major amendments to Annex III (List of Restricted Substances) and Annex IV (List of Permitted Colorants) of the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. Compared with previous stringent restrictions, this revision substantially broadens the applicable cosmetic categories

Major Boost for Cosmetic Exports! EU Proposes Significant Relaxation on Silver Usage Limits, Raising Maximum Concentration up to 0.3% Read More »

EU

The EU PPWR Packaging Regulation Is Coming: Cosmetic Enterprises Must Prepare Now

The European Union cosmetic industry is standing at a critical turning point. As the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) begins taking effect across EU member states in August 2026, all enterprises manufacturing, importing, or selling cosmetics in the EU market will face unprecedented packaging compliance challenges. I. What Is PPWR and Why Must Cosmetic Enterprises Pay Attention? The PPWR is the EU’s latest packaging regulation designed to comprehensively overhaul the European packaging management framework, accelerating the shift toward environmentally friendly, highly circular packaging design and usage. Core Objectives Include: Directive vs. Regulation: Unlike the previous Packaging Directive (94/62/EC), the PPWR is a Regulation. This means it is directly applicable and legally binding in all 27 EU Member States simultaneously, establishing a unified legal framework without requiring national transposition laws. II. How Deeply Will PPWR Impact the Cosmetics Industry? Given its structural complexity, diverse material usage, and frequent inclusion of

The EU PPWR Packaging Regulation Is Coming: Cosmetic Enterprises Must Prepare Now Read More »

EU

EU Notifies WTO of Draft Cosmetics Regulation Revision: Total Ban on Mercury, Strict Limits Introduced for CBD and BHA

On July 8, 2026, the European Commission notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of a draft regulation amending Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products. The draft was developed in reference to the new classification of Carcinogenic, Mutagenic, or Reprotoxic (CMR) substances introduced under Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/1222, as well as the latest scientific evaluation results released by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) between 2025 and 2026. The public comment period runs through September 6, 2026, with adoption expected in the fourth quarter of 2026. Revisions and Additions to Annex II (List of Prohibited Substances) Revisions and Additions to Annex III (List of Restricted Substances) 1. Revision of Permitted Conditions and Restrictions for Hydroxyapatite (nano): Permitted Product Types and Maximum Concentration in Cosmetics Other Restrictions Hydroxyapatite (nano)(a) Toothpaste: 29.5%(b) Mouthwash: 10% For items (a) and (b):– Shall not be used in applications that may lead to exposure

EU Notifies WTO of Draft Cosmetics Regulation Revision: Total Ban on Mercury, Strict Limits Introduced for CBD and BHA Read More »

EU

Expanding into the EU Cosmetic Market: Are You Prepared for These Testing Requirements?

As Chinese beauty brands surge in global popularity, an increasing number of companies are setting their sights on overseas expansion, with the European market standing out as a highly lucrative destination. However, the European Union is renowned within the industry for enforcing some of the world’s most rigorous cosmetic regulations. Before any product sets foot on European soil, brand owners must ensure it is safe for human health, fully documented, and strictly compliant with Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 (the EU Cosmetics Regulation). Testing is an indispensable milestone throughout this intricate compliance journey. A foundational yet critical question frequently asked by expanding brands is: “What testing is mandatory before my product can be launched in the EU?” The precise answer is: It depends. The EU does not prescribe a rigid, one-size-fits-all “testing checklist.” Testing requirements fluctuate depending on formula matrix, product category, microbiological susceptibility, packaging materials, target audience, intended use, and

Expanding into the EU Cosmetic Market: Are You Prepared for These Testing Requirements? Read More »