A recent European Chemicals Agency investigation revealed that 6% of cosmetics tested across 13 European countries contained hazardous chemicals prohibited by EU regulations.
Oceane Duboust reports for Euronews.
In short:
- Inspections of nearly 4,500 products in countries including Germany, Italy and Sweden found 285 cosmetics containing banned chemicals.
- Many of these substances were per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are known to be toxic and environmentally persistent.
- The European Chemicals Agency has taken action to remove non-compliant products from the market and advised consumers to check ingredient labels closely.
Key quote:
“Consumers should be aware that the restricted substances were found in different types of cosmetic products, from various sellers and at all price ranges.”
— European Chemicals Agency statement
Why this matters:
PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” pose significant health and environmental risks, including cancer and reproductive harm. Their presence in widely-used cosmetics highlights ongoing regulatory gaps and underscores the need for stricter enforcement to protect consumers.
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