Commission Regulation (EU) 2026/909, adopted on 27 April 2026, represents a targeted update to Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products. Its primary objective is to align the use of certain substances with the latest scientific evidence concerning consumer safety.
This regulatory measure fits within the well-established EU framework of periodically updating the annexes of the Cosmetics Regulation, taking into account opinions issued by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) and new toxicological data on widely used cosmetic ingredients.
In particular, Regulation (EU) 2026/909 revises the conditions of use for several substances, including Benzyl Salicylate, Triphenyl Phosphate, Citral, as well as certain hair dye ingredients such as HC Blue No 18, HC Red No 18 and HC Yellow No 16. It also addresses additional compounds used for various cosmetic functions. For some of these substances, new restrictions, concentration limits, or labeling requirements are introduced, while others are regulated more explicitly for the first time.
A notable example is Benzyl Salicylate, a well-known fragrance allergen. The regulation reinforces existing labeling obligations, requiring its declaration when specific thresholds are exceeded, in line with the EU’s broader strategy to improve transparency and consumer awareness. Similarly, substances that were previously less strictly regulated, such as Triphenyl Phosphate, are now subject to clearer regulatory scrutiny (i.e., inclusion in Annex II), reflecting increasing concern over their toxicological profile.
From an operational perspective, Regulation (EU) 2026/909 requires cosmetic companies to review product formulations, labeling, and technical documentation, including the Product Information File (PIF) and Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR). The amendment of the annexes to Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 will be included in Cosmetic Regulation on 18th of may, present year.
Another important aspect is the inclusion of hair dye substances and functional ingredients, highlighting the continuous regulatory focus on product categories associated with higher safety risks, particularly in relation to skin sensitization and systemic toxicity.
In conclusion, Regulation (EU) 2026/909 represents a technical yet strategically important update to the EU cosmetic regulatory framework. It reinforces the precautionary principle and the risk-based approach that underpin EU chemicals legislation. For regulatory professionals and industry operators, it underscores the need for continuous monitoring of scientific developments and proactive compliance management in an evolving regulatory landscape.
