Canada Announced the Revision to Cosmetic Regulations

On February 10, 2023, the first part of the Canadian Gazette announced the revision to the Canadian Cosmetic Regulations to strengthen the regulation of cosmetics in Canada.

At present, the term "perfume" is used in the ingredient list on the cosmetic labeling to represent all fragrance ingredients in the formula. However, some consumers who are allergic to essence need to know more details to avoid contact with allergens. Therefore, the Canadian Department of Health proposes to introduce a new regulation that requires disclosure on the labels of 24 listed fragrance ingredients with concentrations greater than 0.01% and 0.001% in rinse-off and leave-on products. The 24 listed fragrances refer to the fragrances identified in Annex III of the European Commission (EC) Cosmetic Regulations. If Annex III is updated, the listed fragrances will also be updated simultaneously.

Since 2005, the European Union has been demanding the disclosure of allergens in fragrances, and proposed amendments will strengthen consistency with EU requirements to support trade between Canada and the EU.

The proposed regulations also modify notification requirements and some administrative provisions. If the product ceases to be sold, notification of changes will be required. In addition, manufacturers and importers must indicate the exact concentration or range of all ingredients (including fragrance allergens) in the notification, clarifying whether the product is a "leave-on" or "rinse-off" product, which will affect the risk status of cosmetics.

There is a 2-year transition period for the disclosure of perfume allergens. Other regulations will take effect 6 months after the registration date. During the transition period, previous regulations still apply, and the Canadian Department of Health will update the notification form to accommodate the revisions. The proposed changes will not have an impact on notifications received before the implementation date.

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