Cosmetics Regulations

Of the 23 substances currently included as CMR substances, two in particular are relevant to practice: the fragrance Lilial and the biocide zinc pyrithione. Both substances have been upgraded in the risk assessment to »Repr. 1B«, i.e. »probably toxic for reproduction«. The products concerned had to be withdrawn from sale before 1 March 2022.

Zinc pyrithione is found in some anti-dandruff shampoos, but also, for example, in a shaving cream by Avène. The substance was already controversial because it can irritate the skin and is toxic to aquatic organisms. In cosmetics, it can be found as Zinc Pyrithione according to the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI).

Lilial is contained as a synthetic fragrance in numerous cosmetics. Organisations such as the German Allergy and Asthma Association (DAAB) or online databases such as CodeCheck have long warned against the ingredient because it can trigger skin irritations and allergic reactions with inflammation, itching and blistering. On the outer packaging, Lilial is usually labelled with the INCI designation Butylphenyl Methylpropion or also Lysmeral.

Besides Lilial, other fragrances are also controversial. However, consumers cannot always tell which fragrances are contained in a product. Fragrances may generally be grouped under the INCI designation »perfume«. The only exception is for 26 particularly allergenic substances, which manufacturers must declare by name above a certain level.

It is under discussion to extend the list to further fragrances. For customers who are sensitive to fragrances, the PTA can recommend fragrance-free alternatives. A good recommendation are products with the DAAB logo, which contain neither fragrances nor allergenic preservatives, or natural cosmetics, for example from Lavera, Dr. Hauschka, Weleda, Primavera or Speick.