New Zealand EPA Takes Pioneering Step to Ban PFAS in Cosmetics

New Zealand, a pioneer in environmental protection, has taken a significant step to improve consumer safety and safeguard the environment by banning the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as 'forever chemicals', in cosmetic products from 31 December 2026. This was announced in a press release on 30 January 2024. 

PFAS in cosmetic products 

PFAS can be found in a variety of consumer products, including nail polish, shaving cream, foundation, lipstick, and mascara. These compounds are added to improve skin smoothness and product durability, as well as impart water-resistant properties to cosmetic products. 

International research indicates that PFAS are present in a limited number of products. However, New Zealand's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking a precautionary approach to the  risks posed by PFAS. This approach includes banning these chemicals in cosmetics as part of an ongoing response that includes phasing out PFAS-containing firefighting foams and monitoring background levels of PFAS in the local environment. 

Comprehensive update of the Cosmetic Products Group Standard 

The decision to regulate PFAS is just one aspect of a comprehensive update to the Cosmetic Products Group Standard. This update aims to ensure the safety of cosmetic products and to bring the rules in line with global developments. 

EPA says it has also strengthened the regulations, to cover non-hazardous cosmetic products that contain hazardous ingredients. This will enable them to effectively enforce the rules governing banned and restricted ingredients in such products. 

Public consultation and industry feedback 

In 2023, EPA initiated a public consultation on the proposed rule changes and received 20 submissions, including 14 from the cosmetics industry. EPA’s Hazardous Substances Reassessments Manager, Dr. Presow, acknowledges the significance of this feedback, stating, " The feedback from our consultation was particularly important for us to better understand how widespread PFAS use is in cosmetics, and was supportive of the changes." 

EPA remains committed to engaging with the industry to ensure a smooth transition before the ban on PFAS ingredients and other regulatory adjustments come into force. 

Harmonizing Regulations with European Union Standards 

The recent updates focus primarily on aligning Schedules 4 to 8 of the Group Standard with the stringent requirements of the European Union, which is  as the global benchmark for quality and safety standards. 

Phasing Out PFAS Ingredients 

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as 'forever chemicals,' will be phased out of cosmetics, with a target date of the end of 2025. 

Expanding the Scope of the Group Standard 

Certain cosmetic products currently contain minute concentrations of hazardous substances that do not cause the entire product to be classified as hazardous. The proposed changes will require these products to comply with the Group Standard, ensuring consumer protection, clearer industry regulations, and improved enforcement. 

Other Proposed Updates Include: 

1. Mandatory recordkeeping for nanomaterials 

2. Updates to fragrance requirements 

3. Consolidation of the main text and Schedules 4 to 8 into a single document 

4. Improvements in the presentation and usability of the group standard. 

EPA remains committed to its mission of protecting the well-being of consumers and the environment through vigilant regulatory measures.