Thailand Cosmetic Regulations Updated: Ingredient Ban New Toothpaste Labels and Microneedle Rules 

In a significant move to enhance cosmetic safety and align with regional standards, Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health (MOPH), through its Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has announced a series of regulatory updates. These include a proposed ban on 17 additional hazardous substances in cosmetics, new labelling requirements for fluoride toothpaste, restrictions on microneedle-based products, and draft guidelines for the evaluation of novel cosmetic ingredients. These initiatives are designed to bring Thailand’s cosmetic regulations in line with the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD) and the ASEAN Harmonized Cosmetic Regulatory Scheme (AHCRS), reinforcing the country's commitment to consumer safety and regional harmonization. 
 
Thailand Proposes Ban on 17 Additional Substances in Cosmetics 

As part of ongoing efforts to align with the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD) and the ASEAN Harmonized Cosmetic Regulatory Scheme (AHCRS). The Thai Ministry of Public Health (MOPH), through its Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has announced plans to expand the list of substances prohibited in cosmetic formulations by adding 17 more chemical entries. 

The newly proposed additions include seven substances—comprising various nickel compounds, quinoline, and imidazole—numbered 1,669 to 1,675 on the regulatory list. The remaining ten entries (1,676 to 1,685) include several benzene-based and petroleum-derived compounds. 

This regulatory move followed a public consultation conducted between 27 February and 13 March, during which concerns were raised regarding the potential health risks of these substances. The proposed ban is primarily due to their classification as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction (CMR). 

This proposal comes after a previous update earlier this year, in which MOPH had already added 56 substances to the prohibited list, reflecting the country’s ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of cosmetic products on the market. 
Review the news by clicking here. 

New Labelling Standards for Fluoride Toothpaste 

To reflect the newly increased fluoride limit of 1,500 ppm, Thailand will require clearer labelling on fluoride-containing toothpaste. Labels must now: 

• Include the statement “toothpaste with fluoride” 

• Specify fluoride concentration in parts per million (ppm) 

• Name the specific fluoride compound used 

• Carry child-safety usage warnings for different age groups 

• Recommend medical advice from doctor or dentist, if children are exposed to additional fluoride sources 

Toothpaste manufacturers will have one year to update their packaging in compliance with the new regulations. 

Restrictions on Microneedle-Based Cosmetics 

Another key proposal includes a ban on the production, import, and sale of cosmetics containing microneedles or microneedle-like crystals, except for dissolvable microneedle patches with needle lengths under 100 micrometers. These permitted products must include cautionary labels about potential skin irritation and allergic reactions, discourage daily use, and restrict application on sensitive areas or by users under the age of 15. A compliance period of 180 days will follow the official announcement.