New EU Regulation: Retinol Limits and End of Suspect Ingredients
In April 2024, the European Union adopted Regulation (EU) 2024/996, a new set of rules that enhance cosmetic safety. The changes affect several important categories, from facial care to sun protection and oral hygiene, and reinforce the precautionary principle we have always advocated.
What Changes
Limits on retinol concentration
Retinol (vitamin A) will now have concentration limits: up to 0.05% in body lotions and 0.3% in other products, with a mandatory warning on the label. This acknowledges that, even as a popular active ingredient, retinol should be used with moderation and discretion.
Suspect ingredients removed
The regulation also addressed substances suspected of being endocrine disruptors, i.e., of interfering with the hormonal system:
- Total ban on the sunscreen filter 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor (4-MBC), a chemical UV filter.
- Restrictions on triclosan and triclocarban, antibacterial ingredients: banned in mouthwashes, and triclosan prohibited in toothpaste for children under 3 years old.
- Restrictions on other active ingredients such as alpha-arbutin, arbutin, and kojic acid.
Why this matters
This is precisely why we advocate for prudent choices. Ingredients that for years were considered acceptable are eventually limited or banned as science advances and regulation follows suit. Those who have already opted for clean and natural formulas never had to worry about these substances.
Our clean composition alternatives
If you are looking for effective facial care without controversial ingredients, we have top-rated alternatives:
An anti-aging serum with a clean formula and an INCI Beauty 20/20 rating, a thoughtful alternative for those seeking results without worries.
For sun protection, we choose mineral filters. This SPF 50 stick avoids the chemical filters that are now under increased scrutiny.
For oral hygiene, our clean composition toothpaste is an option without the controversial antibacterial ingredients.
The direction is always the same
Each new European regulation confirms the same trend: fewer suspect chemicals, more transparency, more safety. By choosing natural cosmetics, you are always one step ahead of legislation.
See our entire selection of serums and natural sun protection at Prana Market.
Sources
- Regulation (EU) 2024/996 (official text, EUR-Lex): Regulation (EU) 2024/996