MICROPLASTICS RESTRICTION USE IN COSMETICS IN THE EU

Microplastics (synthetic polymer microparticles) shall not be placed on the market as a substance on their own or, where the synthetic polymer microparticles are present to confer a sought-after characteristic, in mixtures in a concentration equal to or greater than 0,01 % by weight.

What is the current status for microplastics in the EU? The restriction proposal on microplastics ban was published last year and now the Microplastics Restriction was approved by the REACH Committee on 27^th April 2023.

What happens next? The proposal will now be subject to 3-month scrutiny by the European Parliament and the Council before it can be adopted by the Commission. The restriction will be final once published in the EU’s Official Journal.

When it is expected to be final? After the summer of 2023.

What are the transition periods for cosmetic products?

• There is no transition period for microbeads as the industry was expected to have voluntarily phased out their use by 2020.
• 4-year transition period for other rinse-off cosmetic products
• 6-year transition period for cosmetic leave-on products (except those listed below)
• 12-year transition period for leave-on cosmetic nail products, lip products, and make-up.

Photo source: Rewatergy