EU releases a new second-edition cosmetics guidance for young children

The European Committee for Cosmetics and Consumer Health (CD-P-COS) has revised the safety criteria for cosmetic products for young children under the age of 3. The 2^nd edition (2023) of safety guidelines includes a chapter on ingredients, aligning exposure calculations with the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety's Notes of guidance, and updating fluoride use in toothpaste.

The CD-P-COS is leading the Council of Europe's cosmetics activities, preparing standards and policies to enhance consumer health protection. The rapid increase in children's cosmetics has put pressure on market surveillance authorities to report unsafe products via the EU's Safety Gate system. CD-P-COS's technical standards aim to alleviate this burden.

The revised edition of the guide includes the following:

• New sections on endocrine disruptors and nanomaterials

• Updated safety margin calculations for cosmetic compounds

• Updated standards for evaluating the safety of final goods

• Recommendations for using goods, such as baby wipes, terpenes, sunblock, and fluoride

• Updated research and governing body references

All consumers of cosmetic items, regardless of age, should be protected from hazardous chemicals and endocrine disruptors. To address any recognized health hazards associated with cosmetics, it is vital to keep in mind that young children are particularly vulnerable to these substances. Cosmetics' appealing packaging and other features may enhance the possibility of poisoning or choking for youngsters who consume them. The Council of Europe Resolution CM/ResAP (2012) urges European governments to ensure that cosmetic products for infants undergo an appropriate safety assessment before being released on the market.

List of substances excluded to be used in infant cosmetic products

1. Substances of very high concern that are candidates for inclusion in Annex XIV of Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2009

2. CMRs category 1A, 1B, or 2 under Part 3 of Annex VI to Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008

3. Endocrine disruptors mentioned in Annex 15

4. Substances that are potent allergens

The European Network of Official Cosmetics Control Laboratories has closely monitored cosmetics in toys-like containers, finding banned ingredients and high allergen concentrations. Consumers should be encouraged to select care products based on their intended use.