The 0.3% maximum concentration for triclosan is not a general permission: in cosmetics it only applies to six product types, and since 31 October 2025 products that do not comply cannot be placed on the EU market.
Within the same Regulation (EC) 1223/2009, on cosmetic products, three substances get three different answers.
Hydroquinone is listed in Annex II, the list of substances not permitted in cosmetic products.
Triclosan remains in Annex V, the list of permitted preservatives, but with a table cut back by Regulation (EU) 2024/996. And glutaral is permitted up to 0.1% and without aerosols.
A substance remaining in an annex does not mean it can be used in any product: you have to check the annex, the column and the product type.
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Frequently asked questions
What does Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 say about hydroquinone, triclosan and glutaral?
Within the same Regulation (EC) 1223/2009, on cosmetic products, three substances get three different answers. Hydroquinone is listed in Annex II, the list of substances not permitted in cosmetic products. Triclosan remains in Annex V, the list of permitted preservatives, but with a table cut back by Regulation (EU) 2024/996. And glutaral is permitted up to 0.1% and without aerosols.
Does the 0.3 % limit for triclosan apply to any cosmetic?
The 0.3% maximum concentration for triclosan is not a general permission: in cosmetics it only applies to six product types, and since 31 October 2025 products that do not comply cannot be placed on the EU market.
Is it enough for a substance to remain in the annex to use it in any product?
A substance remaining in an annex does not mean it can be used in any product: you have to check the annex, the column and the product type.
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