France’s Regulatory Leap: Banning PFAS in Cosmetics

On February 27, 2025, France enacted National Law No. 2025-188, marking a significant milestone in consumer safety and environmental protection. The law prohibits the active addition of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in cosmetics, as well as the sale of any cosmetic products containing these substances, starting January 1, 2026. This decisive measure reinforces France’s commitment to reducing exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals and aligns with ongoing discussions at the European level.

Understanding PFAS and Their Impact

PFAS are a diverse group of synthetic chemicals widely used for their water- and oil-repellent properties. Over recent years, concerns have mounted regarding their persistence in the environment, potential to bioaccumulate, and possible adverse effects on human health. Scientific research has linked PFAS exposure to a range of health issues. Given their widespread use, particularly in consumer goods such as cosmetics, regulatory bodies have been under increasing pressure to reassess and tighten safety standards.

Details of the New French Legislation

The National Law No. 2025-188 clearly prohibits:

  • Active Addition of PFAS: Manufacturers can no longer add PFAS as ingredients in cosmetic formulations.
  • Sale of PFAS-Containing Cosmetics: Products that already contain PFAS will be banned from the market effective January 1, 2026.

Industry Implications and Compliance Considerations

For manufacturers and distributors in the cosmetics sector, the law introduces several compliance challenges:

  • Product Reformulation: Companies will need to reformulate products to eliminate PFAS, ensuring that alternative ingredients meet both performance expectations and regulatory safety standards.
  • Supply Chain Adjustments: Raw material suppliers must be vetted to confirm the absence of PFAS, potentially leading to changes in procurement strategies.
  • Regulatory Oversight and Documentation: Enhanced documentation and tracking will be required to demonstrate compliance during inspections and audits. Companies may also need to update labelling and safety data sheets.

This shift not only demands immediate operational adjustments but also encourages long-term investment in research and development of innovative, PFAS-free cosmetic ingredients.

Broader European Context and Future Prospects

At the European level, discussions are underway within the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) regarding the potential for a broader ban on PFAS. Although the French legislation is an independent national measure, it is consistent with the direction of EU chemical safety policies. The complementary nature of these regulations suggests that other EU member states might follow suit, ultimately leading to a more uniform and stringent regulatory landscape across Europe. This evolving regulatory framework is likely to spur increased innovation in safer chemical alternatives and more robust risk assessment methodologies.

Redefining Safety Standards in Cosmetic Manufacturing

The enactment of National Law No. 2025-188 in France represents a significant step towards protecting public health and the environment from the risks associated with PFAS. By banning the use of PFAS in cosmetics, France is setting a high standard for chemical safety that is expected to influence broader European policies in the near future. For the cosmetics industry, this legal change underscores the importance of proactive compliance, continuous innovation, and rigorous safety standards. Companies that adapt swiftly will not only meet regulatory requirements but also position themselves as leaders in sustainable and responsible manufacturing practices.

Source: https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000051260902