RapidAlertsOnCosmetics-RAPEXStatistics2017
Apr 5, 2018 - Analytics
RapidAlertsOnCosmetics-RAPEXStatistics2017
In the RAPEX system (short for Rapid Exchange), all consumer goods posing a danger and available on the European market are listed. The system serves for the rapid exchange of information among all stakeholders, such as manufacturers, authorities, retailers, but also, as the information is publicly accessible, to all interested individuals.
In 2017, there were a total of 63 notifications in the RAPEX system due to health-threatening cosmetics (2016: 87 notifications). Compared to the total of 2020 reported products, cosmetics still represent a very small percentage at 3.1%.
Of the 63 notifications, 7 were due to microbiological concerns. An overview of this can be found in Table 1. The most common reason for classifying cosmetics as harmful was the use of the preservatives Methylisothiazolinone (MI) and Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI). These two substances have been banned in leave-on products since February 2017 according to an amendment to the Cosmetics Regulation. In rinse-off products, the limit remains at 0.01%.
The second most common reason for notifications was the addition of hydroquinone in skin products, which is added there to prevent radical reactions. However, due to its potential carcinogenic effects, this substance is regulated by the Cosmetics Regulation.
| Product Group | Microbiology | Heavy Metals | Chemical Ingredients | Preservatives | Physical Hazard | Allergenic Fragrances |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oral Care Products | 3 | 2 | ||||
| Soap | 1 | 1 | ||||
| Head and Eye Products | 3 | 1 | 3 | 3 | ||
| Hair Products | 3 | 5 | ||||
| Skin Products | 9 | 19 | 1 | 1 | ||
| Baby Products | 2 | |||||
| Lip Products | ||||||
| Bath Products | 4 |
Table: Number of notifications sorted by products and hazard for the period 01/2017 to 08/2017
A more detailed look at specific problematic product groups, or hazards, including the two preservatives Methylisothiazolinone (MI) and Methylchloroisothiazolinone will follow shortly.
If you want to test your cosmetics for the absence of the two preservatives Methylisothiazolinone (MI) and Methylchloroisothiazolinone, please contact us.
At our Tentamus laboratories, we routinely conduct these examinations. We provide you with fast and reliable results.
For questions, our customer advisors are very happy to assist you.
Source: Rapid Alert System 2017 results