Switzerland - Amendment of Food Law Including Cosmetics - Furocoumarins & Tattoo Inks

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Jul 16, 2024 - Cosmetics

Switzerland - Amendment of Food Law Including Cosmetics - Furocoumarins & Tattoo Inks

In Swiss food law, cosmetics and tattoo inks are also regulated, among other things.

Furocoumarins in Cosmetics

Through herbal ingredients, furocoumarins can enter cosmetic products. Furocoumarins are plant compounds that have phototoxic effects, meaning that with intense sunlight, these substances can cause rashes, severe burns, and even carcinogenic effects on the skin. Therefore, in Switzerland, a maximum limit of 1 mg/kg furocoumarins is set for products that remain on the skin and may be exposed to sunlight.

Switzerland is now expanding this regulation to cosmetics imported into Switzerland, not just those manufactured within the country.

This new regulation will come into force in January 2026.

Tattoo Inks

Switzerland is adopting the EU maximum limits for certain ingredients in tattoo inks, which further enhances the health protection of consumers wishing to get tattoos.

The preservatives contained in tattoo inks are now more strictly regulated in Switzerland, resulting in some inks no longer being allowed.

Source: www.blv.admin.ch