News

Go back

Jan 13, 2026 - Cosmetics

New limits for furocoumarins in Swiss cosmetics from 2026

Bern, January 13, 2026 – Starting from January 1, 2026, a new regulation for furocoumarins in cosmetic products will come into effect in Switzerland. Furocoumarins are natural plant substances that occur in essential oils, among other things. They can have a phototoxic effect, meaning they can cause severe skin reactions such as rashes or burns under UV light on the skin and increase the risk of cancer in the long term.

The new regulation sets a total content limit of 1 mg/kg for eight specific furocoumarins. This value applies to all cosmetic products that remain on the skin and are potentially exposed to the sun. The regulation applies to products manufactured in Switzerland and to imported products.

The following substances are affected:

• Byakangelicol (CAS 61046-59-1)
• Epoxy-Bergamottin (CAS 206978-14-5)
• Isopimpinellin (CAS 482-27-9)
• 5-Methoxypsoralen (CAS 484-20-8)
• 8-Methoxypsoralen (CAS 298-81-7)
• Oxypeucedanin (CAS 737-52-0)
• Oxypeucedanin hydrate (CAS 2643-85-8)
• Psoralen (CAS 66-97-7)

Companies that manufacture or import cosmetic products into Switzerland must ensure that the limits are adhered to. Reliable evidence of the substances contained is crucial to ensure compliance with the new regulations. Specialized laboratories now offer fast and precise testing methods that can also measure very low concentrations to guarantee adherence to the total content limit.

The new regulations aim to better protect consumers from the health risks of phototoxic substances and to increase the safety of cosmetics.

Further information can be found on the official website of the Swiss government: fedlex.admin.ch