The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) announced on Wednesday, October 30, that an inspection of cosmetic items across Europe has revealed the presence of dangerous chemicals in hundreds of products. This inspection covered 4,500 cosmetic products sold in 13 European countries, conducted between November 2023 and April 2024. The agency found that 285 items (6%) contained substances prohibited by the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants as well as European regulations.
These hazardous chemicals were identified in a range of popular cosmetics, including eyeliners, lip pencils, conditioners, and hair masks. ECHA’s approach to detection was to examine product ingredient lists—an easy method for consumers to use as well. Following these findings, national authorities in the participating countries have acted to remove non-compliant items from shelves.
Impact and Regional Action
The inspection involved authorities from Austria, Denmark, Germany, Finland, Iceland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Romania, and Sweden. Each country has taken necessary steps to ensure affected products are withdrawn from the market. According to ECHA, these substances are recognized for their potential to negatively impact reproductive health and increase cancer risk, underscoring the importance of the swift action taken.