This article compiles and summarizes the latest developments in cosmetics regulations worldwide as of May 2026.
Regulatory News
In a landmark move for the U.S. sunscreen industry, the FDA has approved Bemotrizinol (Bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine) for inclusion in the over-the-counter (OTC) sunscreen monograph as a permitted active ingredient. Announced on June 9, 2026, this is the first new active ingredient added to the monograph in more than two decades, reflecting ongoing efforts to modernize the U.S. sunscreen regulatory system. The final order takes effect on August 9, 2026.
CIRS Group has compiled and summarized the latest global cosmetics regulatory developments in April 2026, covering industry news, new regulations, policy adjustments, and regulatory trends, helping companies stay compliant and fully informed of the evolving global cosmetics regulatory landscape.
On April 15, 2026, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) announced a second extension of the initial PFAS products reporting deadline, moving it from July 1, 2026 to September 15, 2026. Upon completion of the initial report, subsequent annual reports are due each February 1. Manufacturers unable to meet the deadline may apply for a single 90-day extension (to December 14, 2026).
Globally, the regulatory landscape for exosome cosmetics exhibits significant variability. This article systematically reviews the management measures, regulations, and ethical standards concerning exosome cosmetics in various countries/regions, including the United States, the European Union, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and mainland China. It explores the context of compliance and prohibitions, as well as their impact on industry development, providing comprehensive global regulatory compliance guidance for cosmetic companies.
On March 11, 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) launched a new unified platform for analyzing adverse event reports, known as the FDA Adverse Event Monitoring System (AEMS). This initiative marks a significant milestone in the agency’s mission to modernize and enhance transparency regarding the safety of regulated products.On March 11, 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) launched a new unified platform for analyzing adverse event reports, known as the FDA Adverse Event Monitoring System (AEMS). This initiative marks a significant milestone in the agency’s mission to modernize and enhance transparency regarding the safety of regulated products.
In the cosmetics industry, INCI names and CAS numbers are regarded as the "birth certificates" for new ingredients. These identifiers not only establish the identity of the ingredients but also facilitate their recognition and communication in the global market. This article explores the definitions, application processes, and international market applications of INCI names and CAS numbers, aiming to help cosmetic companies better understand their significance.
In February, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced updates to the Cosmetics Direct electronic submission portal, along with the user guide and other materials, to assist in the biennial registration renewal of cosmetic product facilities as required under the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA).
On January 12, 2026, the New Jersey Senate has passed Bill S1221, officially titled the Protecting Against Forever Chemicals Act, which introduces a ban on the sale of cosmetic products containing intentionally added per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), effective in 2028.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are increasingly becoming a focal point of global concern due to their potential long-term impacts on the environment and human health. As a class of synthetic chemicals characterized by high stability and widespread applications, PFAS are facing increasingly stringent regulatory scrutiny in the cosmetics sector. This article explores the physicochemical properties and potential health risks of PFAS, and systematically reviews the evolving global regulatory landscape related to their use in cosmetics. It aims to help cosmetic enterprises gain a comprehensive understanding of regulatory requirements, mitigate compliance risks, enhance product safety, and strengthen competitiveness in international markets.
