Colour cosmetics in 2026: navigating a changing regulatory landscape
The regulatory landscape for colour cosmetics is evolving rapidly. From PFAS and microplastics to fragrance allergens, aluminium-containing ingredients, and SPF claims, new requirements are impacting formulations, product documentation, safety assessments and innovation strategies.
A broader regulatory landscape
Regulatory monitoring can no longer focus solely on Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. Manufacturers must increasingly consider requirements arising from REACH, CLP and national environmental legislation.
This broadened outlook is of particular relevance to colour cosmetics due to their reliance on pigments, film-forming agents, plasticisers, surface treatments, and functional ingredients used to deliver long wear, water resistance and specific sensory properties.
PFAS and microplastics: anticipating reformulation
PFAS are among the key areas expected to require heightened attention. From January 1st, 2026, Law No. 2025-188 prohibits the manufacture, import, export and placing on the market of cosmetic products containing PFAS above defined residual values in France. At the European level, REACH restrictions already target certain fluorinated substances, including PFHxA and related substances.
Microplastics are another important consideration for cosmetics manufacturers. Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 introduces progressive restrictions on intentionally added microplastics in consumer products, with deadlines extending to 2035 depending on the product category. Certain functional polymers, texturising agents, and decorative elements used in colour cosmetics may be affected.
These developments require manufacturers to identify impacted formulations early and assess alternatives that meet regulatory requirements while maintaining expected product performance.
Ingredients, labelling and claims under scrutiny
Nanomaterials remain an important compliance topic, particularly for mineral pigments used in make-up and tinted sun-protection products. Regulation (EU) 2026/909 also introduces restrictions for aluminium-containing ingredients.
Among the affected items are some nail products; trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) has been prohibited in cosmetics since the 1st of September 2025, while products containing TPO may no longer be placed on the market from the 1st of January 2027 or made available from the 1st of July 2028.
In addition, abelling requirements are evolving. Since the 31st of July 2026, Regulation (EU) 2023/1545 applies to new cosmetic products placed on the market, extending the fragrance allergens subject to individual labelling requirements. Meanwhile, the ongoing revision of the European sunscreen recommendation could impact foundations, BB creams, CC creams and powders carrying SPF claims.
Anticipating rather than reacting
For manufacturers, the challenge is to identify potentially impacted products and raw materials early and prioritise the appropriate corrective actions, from reformulation and additional safety data to label changes and updates to the Product Information File or Cosmetic Product Safety Report.
Eurofins Cosmetics & Personal Care supports cosmetics companies throughout this process by combining regulatory and toxicological expertise, consulting and testing capabilities. From assessing ingredients and formulations to supporting compliance strategies, safety documentation and testing, our experts help manufacturers anticipate regulatory changes, evaluate appropriate solutions and secure products throughout their lifecycle.