This article provides a consolidated overview of the relevant regulatory notices, supplemented by recent developments in regulatory enforcement activities-such as unannounced inspections and sampling inspections-conducted by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) and selected provincial and municipal authorities. The aim is to assist enterprises in staying informed of evolving regulatory trends and to reinforce awareness of quality management and compliance requirements.

In our last article, Is Your Scalp Healthy? – Scalp Health Evaluation Methods (Part I), we have introduced the evaluation methods for dandruff, sebum levels, and itchiness. In this article, we will continue with the evaluation methods for erythema/papules/pustules and the overall hair status.

On October 31, 2025, the UK Government submitted notification G/TBT/N/GBR/107 to the World Trade Organization (WTO), announcing the draft Cosmetic Products (Restriction of Chemical Substances) Regulations 2026 and proposing amendments to the Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. The draft proposes the prohibition of 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor in cosmetic products, the banning of 16 CMR substances, and the tightening of the labelling requirements for formaldehyde-releasing substances. Stakeholders can accept feedback until December 30, 2025.

Recently, the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) issued an announcement revoking the distribution permits of 34 cosmetic products. The revocation was due to the presence of harmful and/or prohibited ingredients in these products, which may pose serious health risks to consumers.

In light of increasing concerns over carcinogenic risks, the European Union is considering banning the use of ethanol as an active ingredient in hand sanitizers and other disinfectant products, triggering significant controversy. On October 10, a working group under the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) issued an internal recommendation classifying ethanol as a hazardous substance that may increase the risk of cancer and suggested it should be replaced in cleaning and other disinfectant products.