Pentasodium pentetate
Pentasodium pentetate is used as a chelating agent in cosmetics, in particular soaps.
In July 2023 Pentasodium Pentetate was placed into Annex II of the EU cosmetics regulations due to its classification as a CMR chemical (CMR=Carcinogenic, Mutagenic, Reprotoxic). This means the ingredient is banned from use in cosmetics.
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32023R1490
But it was unclear whether the ingredient would be banned in cosmetics in the UK.
However,
Were NOT classified as CMR chemicals. This means that they can continue to be used in cosmetics.
https://www.hse.gov.uk/chemical-classification/assets/docs/mcl-aapl-0404.pdf
https://www.hse.gov.uk/chemical-classification/assets/docs/cwbsd-aapm-0405.pdf
Quick summary:
Pentasodium Pentate is banned in the EU, but is still can be used in cosmetics in England, Wales and Scotland. In Northern Ireland the EU cosmetic regulations apply.
Retinol, Retinyl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate
Vitamin A derivatives such as Retinol, Retinyl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate were reviewed by the SCCS in 2022.
In April 2024 the legislative text has been released.
Retinol, Retinyl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate are limited to 0.05% retinol equivalent in body lotions.
Retinol, Retinyl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate are limited to 0.3% retinol equivalent in face creams.
The following warning MUST be placed on the labelling:
'Contains Vitamin A. Consider your daily intake before use’.
From 1 November 2025 cosmetic products containing Retinol, Retinyl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate and not complying with the conditions shall not be placed on the Union market. From 1 May 2027 cosmetic products containing that Retinol, Retinyl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate and not complying with the conditions shall not be made available on the Union market.
Quick summary
For the EU. UK opinion not released.
Retinol, Retinyl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate are limited to 0.05% retinol equivalent in body lotions.
Retinol, Retinyl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate are limited to 0.3% retinol equivalent in face creams.
The following warning MUST be placed on the labelling:
'Contains Vitamin A. Consider your daily intake before use’.
For products already on the marketplace must comply by 1 May 2027. New cosmetic products must comply by 1 November 2025.
Kojic Acid
Kojic Acid was reviewed by the SCCS in 2022. In April 2024 the legislative text has been released.
Face and hand products - limited to 1%.
From 1 February 2025 cosmetic products containing that substance and not complying with the conditions shall not be placed on the Union market. From 1 November 2025 cosmetic products containing that substance and not complying with the conditions shall not be made available on the Union market.’
Quick summary
For the EU. UK opinion not released.
Face and hand products - limited to 1%.
For products already on the marketplace must comply by 1 February 2025 . New cosmetic products must comply by 11 November 2025.
