In the United States, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) regulates cosmetic ingredients under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). The FDA bans or restricts 11 kinds of substances due to safety concerns. Follows are the ingredients that are specifically prohibit or restrict to use in cosmetics:
- Bithionol
- Chlorofluorocarbon propellants
- Chloroform
- Halogenated salicylanilides (di-, tri-, metabromsalan and tetrachlorosalicylanilide)
- Hexachlorophene
- Mercury compounds
- Methylene chloride
- Prohibited cattle materials
- Sunscreens in cosmetics
- Vinyl chloride
- Zirconium-containing complexes
Regulatory Implications of Prohibited & Restricted Ingredients in Cosmetics
Under U.S. law, cosmetic products and ingredients, other than color additives, do not need FDA approval before they go on the market. Cosmetic manufacturers have a legal responsibility for the safety and labeling of their products. FDA can and does take action against cosmetics on the market that do not comply with the law. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that cosmetic companies continuously monitor regulatory updates, reformulate products if needed, and ensure proper labeling and documentation to maintain market access to U.S. and consumer trust.
How to Search Prohibited & Restricted Ingredients in Cosmetics
Click here to search Prohibited & Restricted Ingredients in Cosmetics on GlobalCosIng.
Regulations and Standards
- The MoCRA (Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022)
- The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act)
- Color Additives and Cosmetics
Our Services
- The United States Agent
- The United States FDA Cosmetic Facility Registration
- The United States FDA Cosmetic Product Listing
- The United States FDA OTC Drug Registration
- The United States Color Additive Batch Certification
- The United States Cosmetic/OTC Drug Labeling Review
- International Cosmetic Ingredient Name (INCI) Application
If you have any questions, please contact us at cosmetic@cirs-group.com.
