Nitrosamines are chemical compounds that can be present as contaminants in various products, including foods (such as certain beverages), tobacco, rubber and cosmetics. Some of these nitrosamines, such as N-nitrosodiethanolamine (NDELA) and N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), are classified as category 1B carcinogens. Cosmetic products containing nitrosamines, including NDELA, are prohibited by European cosmetic regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009, and its Annex III refers to…
Allergens in Cosmetics
Cosmetic products can cause allergic reactions in some people. Allergy is not the same thing as irritation. A product can be a dermal irritant and not cause an allergy, and vice versa. Many people suffer from allergies and anyone at any age can develop allergies. Allergic reactions are the immune system's overreaction to substances that might otherwise be harmless. An allergen can…
PFAs in Cosmetics
Per-polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a diverse group of man-made chemicals used in a wide range of industrial consumer products. Certain PFAS are intentionally added as ingredients in some cosmetic products, including lipsticks, eye shadows, moisturizers, blushes, nail polishes, blushes, and other cleansers. These PFAS are used in cosmetics to condition and soften skin and hair, giving them shine or…
Attitudes and behaviors towards sun exposure in Japan compared to Europe and the United States
Protecting the skin against sun exposure is increasingly recognized as an important public health problem, as knowledge about the risks of ultraviolet (UV) radiation increases. It is well documented that UV radiation causes skin cancer, sunburn, premature aging, immunosuppression and activation of latent viruses. Although climatic factors can influence the level of UV radiation…
Reversing skin aging through senescence modulation
How to turn back our biological clock? Approaches to slowing or reversing aging have gained momentum in recent years, but the field is still in its infancy, with hurdles to overcome, as illustrated by efforts to develop therapies that eliminate senescent cells. Delaying aging, restoring youth, regenerative medicine… whatever the term used, research that aims to target the fundamental mechanisms of aging…
New Use Restrictions for Arbutin and Alpha-Arbutin in Cosmetics in Europe
The new amendment to Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009, (EU) 2024/996, places the substances Arbutin (CAS# 497-76-7) and Alpha-Arbutin (CAS# 84380-01-8) in Annex III of the regulation, under reference numbers 378 and 377 respectively. The maximum limit allowed for Arbutin is 7%, which can only be used in face creams. For Alpha-Arbutin, the maximum limit is 2% in face creams and…
Ban on the Use of the 4-MBC UVB Filter in ALL Cosmetics in Europe
Regulation (EU) 2024/996 of the European Commission, of 04/03/2024, amends Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to the use of 3-(4'-methylbenzylidene )-camphor (4-MBC, CAS# 36861-47-9/38102-62-4) as it has the potential for endocrine disruption in cosmetic products, and has effects on both the thyroid system and estrogen and it is not possible to determine a maximum concentration for safe use of the substance.…
Validity of Cosmetic Products: A Scientific Approach – SF Does It!
Stability and microbiological testing is required for all cosmetic products, whether classified as Grade 1 or Grade 2. During the safety assessment, the results of these tests are analyzed together with the ingredients present in the formulation, the manufacturing process and the purpose of application of the cosmetic product. Safety Assessment for cosmetics companies. SF Does It! SF…
New Restrictions on the Use of Vitamin A in Cosmetics in Europe
Regulation (EU) 2024/996 of the European Commission, of 04/03/2024, amends Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to the use of vitamin A as it has potential disruptive properties of the endocrine system in cosmetic products. The new menu of Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 adds the substances Retinol (CAS# 11103-57-4/ 68-26-8), Retinyl Acetate (CAS# 127-47-9) and Retinyl Palmitate (CAS# 79-81-2 ) in the Annex…
UV Filters and Endocrine Dysfunction
The use of sunscreens is crucial for protecting the skin against damage caused by the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, recent research has raised concerns about the possible effects on the development of children and adolescents of some ingredients present in sunscreens, especially chemical ones. What are Endocrine Disruptors? Endocrine disruptors are chemical substances that can interfere with the…