ECHA Reviews Proposed EU Restriction on Octocrylene in Cosmetics Products

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) maintains a public platform tracking restriction processes under the REACH Regulation, providing status updates, documents, and consultation opportunities. One key case concerns Octocrilene (CAS No. 6197-30-4), a UV filter widely used in sunscreens and cosmetic products at concentrations of up to 10% for UVB protection and photo-stabilisation. However, recent studies have raised concerns about its potential harm to aquatic ecosystems, particularly marine organisms such as corals and worms. In response, and following a proposal from the French agency ANSES, France prepared a restriction dossier in 2023 and submitted it in July 2025. ECHA then opened a public consultation on the proposed SEAC draft opinion from July 17, 2026 to August 17, 2026, allowing stakeholders to provide input. The proposal suggests banning the placing on the market or use of cosmetic products containing octocrylene at concentrations equal to or above 0.001% w/w. If adopted, the restriction would apply 24 months after entry into force, allowing a transition period for industry. A final decision is expected in 2027 after evaluations by ECHA’s Committees for Risk Assessment (RAC) and Socio-economic Analysis (SEAC), followed by approval through the European Commission’s comitology process. Progress can be tracked via the ECHA CHEM database.