Canada Updates Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist

Canada Updates Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist

Health Canada bans some Key Ingredients and limits usage of some

In a significant regulatory move, Canada has updated its Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist to ban and restrict several ingredients due to health and safety concerns. Health Canada announced the changes last month, marking the first major update to the list since September 2018.

Among the newly banned substances is Basic Green 4, also known as Malachite Green, which has been linked to potential developmental effects. This dye is also prohibited in Europe under Annex II/188 of Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. Additionally, Benzophenone has been added to the list of restricted substances due to its adverse maternal effects, such as decreased body weight, with its concentration in cosmetic products now limited to 3%.​

The update also imposes restrictions on p-Chloro-m-Cresol, an ingredient associated with health concerns affecting the adrenal organs. This substance is now prohibited in cosmetics intended for use around mucosal membranes like the eyes, nose, or mouth and is limited to a concentration of 0.1% in other cosmetics. Products containing this ingredient must carry a warning label advising against use in sensitive areas.

Health Canada’s adjustments reflect ongoing efforts to align cosmetic regulations with the latest scientific findings and international standards, ensuring consumer safety. The new rules illustrate a trend of increasing regulatory scrutiny over cosmetic ingredients, similar to actions taken by other countries and regions to safeguard public health​ (Bureau Veritas)​.

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